PoliticsJuly 15, 2026

constitutionalism

/ˌkɒnstɪˈtjuːʃənəlɪzəm/

Definition

A political commitment to the principle that government authority should be derived from, limited by, and exercised strictly according to a foundational set of legal rules.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'constitutio' meaning 'a setting up' or 'a regulation.' It entered English via French, evolving to describe the system of governance defined by a formal constitution.

In the news

In this article, the term is used to describe the core political platform of David Maraga, who advocates for adherence to legal frameworks within Kenya's political system. It represents a contrast to the historically fluid or elite-driven methods common in Kenyan politics.

Mapping Political Actors in Kenya’s 2027 General Elections

Read the full article ↗

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