A constitution is more than a document in a government building. It sets the rules for how power is gained, used and transferred. When those rules keep changing, citizens and institutions can lose trust.
Recent political developments in Guinea-Bissau have again brought questions about constitutional stability and democratic governance into the spotlight. The country is preparing for a constitutional referendum, while opposition groups have raised concerns about the process.
The situation highlights a wider question for Africa:
How can the continent achieve development when political rules and institutions remain unstable?
This is at the heart of Agenda 2063 Moonshot 3, which focuses on good governance, democracy, human rights and strong institutions.
Good governance is not simply about holding elections.
It is also about whether public institutions work effectively, whether citizens can hold leaders accountable, whether laws are respected and whether governments can change peacefully.
These issues have direct economic consequences.
Businesses are more likely to invest when they can trust institutions and understand the rules. Young people are more likely to participate in society when they believe their voices matter. Public resources are more likely to benefit citizens when institutions are transparent and accountable.
Political instability can have the opposite effect. It can discourage investment, weaken public services and deepen distrust between citizens and governments.
For many Africans, however, governance can sometimes feel like something discussed only by politicians and experts.
It should not be.
Governance affects everyday life: the quality of schools, the availability of jobs, access to healthcare, public transport, electricity, security and how taxes are spent.
This is why constitutional stability matters.
A constitution should provide predictable rules that apply to everyone — including those in power. Changing constitutional rules is not automatically wrong, but such changes should respect democratic processes and protect citizens’ rights.
Agenda 2063’s vision is for an Africa where democratic values, good governance, justice and the rule of law are strengthened.
That vision cannot be achieved by governments alone.
Citizens, civil society, journalists, young people and institutions all have roles to play.
The real measure of good governance is therefore not simply who wins an election or who occupies the presidency.
It is whether institutions remain strong enough to protect citizens, enforce the law and ensure that power serves the public.
For the Africa We Want, strong institutions must matter more than strong individuals.