Theory question 104
Citizenship, Rights and Duties(a) Define the rights of a citizen.
(b) Highlight five ways of safeguarding the rights of a citizen in a state.
Show the model answer
Model answer
(a) Rights of a citizen are the freedoms and privileges a citizen is entitled to by law, which the state must recognise and protect (e.g. right to life, liberty, expression, vote).
(b) Any five: entrenching fundamental rights in the constitution; rule of law; independent judiciary (courts enforce rights, e.g. habeas corpus); free press; separation of powers with checks and balances; active opposition parties and pressure groups; human rights commissions/ombudsman; legal aid; citizens' awareness of their rights; honouring international human-rights conventions.
Explanation
Give five distinct safeguards, not five rights.