Course Description:
The study of constitutional law attempts to give some idea of the fundamental and essential nature of the law that is basic to virtually all countries in the world. In this respect, it is concerned with both the substantive content as well as with basic aspects of law to its subsidiary elements, namely, legislation. It is also concerned with the link between basic law and the people at large (the question of human freedoms and individual rights). The main issues examined in the course are the instruments of state governance/arms of government (the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary), the divisions between them, and their relationship to the ordinary citizens in the country. Students are thus urged to keep abreast with recent and past developments in the arena of statehood and political life in Uganda, the sister East African countries of Kenya, Tanzania, (as well as Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan), and the world at large. There is no set text for this course; however, it employs a multiplicity of sources. Every student MUST have a copy of the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda as amended.
Justification:
The successful completion of this course is a partial fulfillment of your bachelor of law degree. The course will offer skills, knowledge, and expertise to handle pertinent constitutional questions as a practicing or advocacy lawyer in the field. Furthermore since all laws are derived from the constitution, the skills and knowledge gained in this course will not only help you understand other vital legislation but also assist you to interpret the law more broadly.
Course Aim:
To help you appreciate issues of constitutionalism and good governance that forms the foundation of any successful society.
Course Objectives:
Through interactive lectures, group discussions, presentations, role-play, and research, you should be able to:
1. Develop an understanding of the fundamental constitutional issues of the day.
2. Analyze and distinguish various constitutions and determine their suitability for each given society.
3. Recognize a constitutional problem and suggest a relevant solution.
4. Develop an appreciation of how the law is formulated.
Analyze the 1995 Constitution and its amendments in line with fundamental principles.