Protections for the citizenry from unlawful or repressive acts by the government are contained primarily in

The answer is the amendments in the constitution or just constitution. Important and deep-rooted rules governing the conduct of an organization or nation state, and founding its concept, character, and structure. It is usually a short document, general in nature and exemplifying the aspirations and values of its writers and subjects. The eldest constitution is that of the US which is made during 1787.