THE

ULTIMATE

VOICE THE DRAFT OF THE REVIEWED CONSTITUTION WAS MADE BY A

COMMITTEE UNDER THE GOVERNANCE OF THE SPEAKER OF THE

THIRD PARLIAMENT, RT. HON. BABA SEIDU.

THE REVIEW COMMITTEE (2008/2009):

CHAIRPERSONS:

HER LORDSHIP PORTIA CANN- CHIEF JUSTICE

HON. ABENA OWUSU AMOAKO- AG. WOMENS COMMISSIONER

HIS LORDSHIP NANAYAW RICHMOND OSEI- CHIEF JUSTICE

MEMBERS:

RT. HON. BABA SEIDU ISSAKA- THE SPEAKER OF PARLIAMENT

RT. HON LINDA IMBEAH- DEPUTY SPEAKER

RT. HON. MORO KWESI SESI- CLERK TO PARLIAMENT (2008/2009) & DEP. SPEAKER (2007/2008)

HON. REV. OTCHERE BAFFOUR- MINISTER OF WELFARE/ SPIRITUAL AFFAIRS & DEPUTY CLERK (P.R.O)

HON. GLORIA EDUSEI- WOMENS COMMISSIONER

REV. JOHN AVORGAH- AG. DEAN OF STUDENTS AFFAIRS

HON. FRANCIS AGBEWALE- ELECTORAL COMMISSIONER

HIS LORDSHIP GEORGE OPPAN- CHIEF JUSTICE (2006-2008)

HON. SUZY SAMPSON- GOVERNOR (STOTT SOCIETY)

HON. JACOB BART PLANGE- GOVERNOR (ANIM SOCIETY)

HON. SAMUEL GYAMFI- GOVERNOR (NKRUMAH SOCIETY) & DEP. MINISTER (RESEARCH/ PROJECTS/ ICT)

HON. JUSTINE PEARL-ADZOMAH- GOVERNOR (UBUNTU SOCIETY)

HON. MARIAMAH BRAHIMA SULEY- McKEOWN REPRESENTATIVE

HON. ELORM CUDJOE AKPAKLI- MINISTER (ALUMNI & EXTERNAL AFFAIRS)

HON. PATRICK SENEGAH- DEP. MINISTER (ALUMNI & EXTERNAL AFFAIRS)

HON. SETH APPIAGYEI- MINISTER (FINANCE & DEVELOPMENT)

HON. PETER PORGY QUARCOOPOME- MINISTER (ACADEMIC AFFAIRS)

THE DRAFT MADE BY THE THIRD PARLIAMENT WAS FINALLY

REVIEWED DURING THE GOVERNANCE OF RT. HONORABLE GODWIN

AKRONG BY A COMMITTEE CONSISTING OF:

CHAIRPERSON- HIS LORDSHIP ALBERT ESSUMAN (CHIEF JUSTICE)

DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON- HER LORDSHIP MILLICENT FIANOO (DEPUTY CHIEF JUSTICE)

` SECRETARY- HON. KWEKU OTCHERE (STOTT M.P)

MEMBER- RT. HONORABLE FREDRICK GRANT (DEPUTY SPEAKER OF PARLIAMENT)

MEMBER- HON. BENJAMIN AGYAKWA (P.RO)

MEMBER- NWAZOLA ONYINYE NNEKA (DEP. GOVERNOR- UBUNTU)

MEMBER- JOHANNES LUCIEN ADOTEY

MEMBER- ANDREW DAMOLA AJALA

MEMBER- HON. JACOB BART PLANGE- GOVERNOR (ANIM SOCIETY- 2008/2009)

REVIEW DATE: FEBRUARY, 2010.

***THE REVIEWED CONSTITUTION WAS SUBMITTED TO THE SPEAKER OF

PARLIAMENT, RT. HON. GODWIN AKRONG (2009/2010) ON: THURSDAY, MARCH

4, 2010***

THE DRAFT OF THE AMENDED CONSTITUTION WAS MADE BY A COMMITTEE UNDER THE GOVERNANCE OF THE SPEAKER OF THE

SEVENTH PARLIAMENT, RT. HON. NADIA DARKO-LARTEY.

THE AMENDMENT COMMITTEE (20012/2013):

CHAIRPERSON- HON. NANA KWEGYIR GYEBI- MP, McKEOWN SOCIETY

DEPUTY CHAIRPERSONS HIS LORDSHIP MICHAEL DANSAH APPIAH-CHIEF

JUSTICE/HER LADYSHIP CHARLOTTE ATTEH-DEPUTY CHIEF JUSTICE

SECRETARY- HON.KWAME SARFO ASIEDU -CLERK TO PARLIAMENT

MEMBERS:

HON HANNAH QUANSAH (GOVERNOR, UBUNTU).

HON. ISAIAH ADEKOGE (DEP. MINISTER FOR SPIRITUAL AFFAIRS &WELFARE)

HON. ADOWA AMOAKO (MP, McKEOWN SOCIETY)

HON. LENNOX ASHIE KOTEI - ELECTORAL COMMISSIONER

AMENDED DATE: MARCH, 2013.

***THE AMENDED CONSTITUTION WAS SUBMITTED TO THE SPEAKER OF

PARLIAMENT, RT. HON. NADIA DARKO-LARTEY (2012/2013) ON: SATURDAY,

APRIL 20, 2013***

2

INTRODUCTION The Regent Ghana Students Parliament is characterized by a unique representational structure being the first ever to be adapted by any tertiary institution in the country. This system features fusion of powers, where the head of

the students governing body is the same as the head of the students legislative body being The Executive and Parliament respectively. The Executive is made up of three elected members, one running mate whom the speaker-aspirant files as part

of his/ her nominations (for the position of Deputy Speaker) and three appointed members by the Speaker in

consultation with the Executives who are listed below:

The Speaker of Parliament (Elected)

The Deputy Speaker of Parliament

The Clerk to Parliament (Elected)

The Deputy Clerk (General Services) The Head of Finance and Planning The Womens Commissioner. (Elected) The Deputy Clerk to Parliament (Public Relations, and Events)

The Societies (Equivalent to halls of residence), being the sub-communities or constituencies within the

University community will present four elected members each to Parliament as Members of Parliament, and the

Heads of the societies (Governors) to serve as Parliamentary Chief whips.

The law making function is certainly the most visible activity performed by the Regent Ghana Students Parliament. The House deliberates on issues related to students and resolves conflicts among competing

interests. This system provides a veritable forum for student participation in the business of the house and

debates are allowed through consideration of proposals before being passed by the House on behalf of the

entire Students body.

The dignity of Parliament is affirmed by this Constitution which serves as and is termed the Ultimate voice of the

Regent Ghana Students Union.

DECLARATION We the students of the Regent Ghana Students Union are: DEDICATED to democracy, the rule of law, the promotion and safeguarding of citizens rights and being aware of the multiplicity of problems faced by citizens in tertiary institutions within the Nation and across the Continent of

Africa, deem it paramount to create a forum (the Regent Ghana Students Parliament,) mandated and empowered to address issues concerning students governance and representation, using ONE voice -The Constitution of the Regent Ghana Students Union.

AIMING at creating the requisite medium to equip a vanguard of purpose-driven professionals and leaders

committed to the socio-economic and spiritual renewal of our competitive global environment.

ACKNOWLEDGING the need for a unique system of students governance, which will enable the participation

of students in policy formulation and implementation with a patriotic and passionate consciousness to fulfill their

individual and collective aims and aspirations for the development of Ghana and Africa; hereby, enact this

Constitution to establish the Regent Ghana Students Parliament (RGSP) which shall represent the students of the

Regent University College of Science and Technology as the highest ruling body of the Regent Ghana Students

Union (RGSU).

3

ARTICLE I: NAME 1. The name of the body shall be known as THE REGENT GHANA STUDENTS UNION (RGSU), herein after referred to as REGENT STUDENTS UNION. 2. The Motto of the Regent Citizens. Union shall be: RGSUWe Explore and Discover 3. The Slogan of the Regent Citizens. Union shall be: Creative Minds! We Explore and Discover! 4. The Accolade of the Regent Citizens. Union shall be CREATIVE MINDS. NB: The Motto, Slogan and Accolade of the Regent Ghana Students Union (RGSU) shall be the same for the Regent Ghana Students Parliament (RGSP). 5. Constitution

a.The name of this constitution shall be THE ULTIMATE VOICE OF REGENT GHANA STUDENTS

UNION herein after referred to as THE ULTIMATE VOICE. b.The supremacy of the Constitution:

i.This Constitution shall be and serve as the supreme law of Regent Ghana Students Union. ii. The

enforcement of the provision of this Constitution shall be upheld by the officers and members of Regent

Ghana Students Union. iii. All Citizens (ARTICLE II section 2) shall have the right and duty at all times to defend and protect the sanctity of this Constitution through peaceful means.

4

ARTICLE II: MEMBERSHIP 1. All citizens of the Regent University College of Science and Technology are automatically members of

Regent Ghana Students Union (RGSU). 2. Members of the Regent Ghana Students Union shall hereinafter be referred to as CITIZENS. 3. All alumni shall automatically be inactively part of the Union. ARTICLE III: AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1. To promote the social and intellectual lives of Citizens. 2. To promote the interests of the Citizens and the University. 3. To protect and enhance the general well-being of its Citizens. 4. To protect the integrity of the Citizens and the University as a whole. 5. To promote the existence of the Regent Alumni. ARTICLE IV: FUNCTIONS OF RGSU 1. The Regent Ghana Students Union (RGSU) shall represent all Citizens within the Universitys

governance structure and shall campaign on issues relating to the Citizens.

2. One of its most important roles shall be to provide a wide range of services to Citizens including an

effective and confidential welfare service on legal, financial, academic and personal matters.

3. RGSU shall facilitate the effective operation of Societies and registered Clubs that give Citizens the

opportunity to join with others who share their interests.

4. It shall keep up-to-date information on the various Societies and Clubs for National Student Groups. ARTICLE V: GOVERNING STRUCTURE The Governing structure shall be made up of: 1. The Executive consisting of: a.The Speaker b.The Deputy Speaker c.The Clerk d.The Deputy Clerk (General Services) e.Head of Finance and Planning f.Womens Commissioner g.The Deputy Clerk to Parliament (Public Relations and Events).

h.In order to safeguard the interest of citizens the Speaker shall form a five- member council of Elders of which

four (4) shall come from both Honorary Fellows of the Parliament and the Union. The Executive shall pay them

an amount not less than the sitting allowances of the allowances of the executives at any sitting of parliament.

5

i. Apart from the Speaker, the Clerk, the Womens Commissioner and the Deputy Speaker (who will be filed by the speaker- aspirant during nominations,) all other executive shall be appointed by The Speaker in consultation

with The Clerk and The Womens Commissioner. 2. The Regent Ghana Students Parliament consisting of:

a. A seven (7) Member Executive

b. Twenty (20) Elected Members of Parliament (MP) representing the five Societies for morning, Evening and weekend streams.

c. Five (5) Chief Whips (Societal Governors) d. Eighteen (18) appointed ministers of whom eight shall be the sector ministers and ten (10) deputies.

3. Independent Constitutional Bodies and Ministries: a.Independent Constitutional Bodies:

i. The Judiciary

ii. The Electoral Commission b.Ministries:

I. Entrepreneurship and ICT

II. Research and Academics

III. Spiritual affairs and Welfare

IV. Sports

V. Entertainment

VI. Finance

VII. External Affairs and Alumni

VIII. Intelligence and Students Affairs

4. The Judiciary consisting of:

a.A Chief Justice (Appointed by the Speaker in consultation with the Executives and Approved by

Parliament)

b.A deputy Chief Justice (Appointed by the Speaker in consultation with the Executives and Approved by

Parliament) and

c.Other Five (5) members from each of the Societies presented by the Governor 5. The Electoral Commission consisting of: a.An Electoral Commissioner(proposed by the Out-going commission, appointed by the Speaker in consultation with the Executives and Approved by Parliament)

b.An Electoral Commissioner must have spent at least four (4) semesters in the University and served the

Commission during a General Election.

b.Two (2) Deputy Commissioners(Appointed by the Electoral Commissioner from the Electoral

Commission)

c.One (1) Returning Officer from each Society (Anim, Stott, Mckeown, Ubuntu and Nkrumah)

6

6. The Womens Commission: This commission shall harness the intellectual capacity of female citizens with a view to sharpen them as tools for the solution of the problems of female citizens. a.The Womens Commissioner will be the head of this commission. b.The Womens Commissioner must appoint a deputy Commissioner, Secretary, Organizer and a Treasurer who will discharge their duties voluntarily. c.The membership of the commission shall consist of all female citizens. 7. Societies: a.There shall be societies in the Union. b.Societies shall elect Governors, MPs, Secretary and Treasurer. c.Governors shall be the heads of their societies. d.Governors shall appoint campus representatives. e.Governors are responsible for transmitting information from parliament to their societies. f.Governors are responsible for Societal Week Celebrations. g.Governors must send a report to the office of the Deputy Speaker at the end of every month. h.Each society must have a constitution. ARTICLE VI: ELECTION AND APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS

1. Election and appointment of members of the Executive: a.The Speaker, the Clerk and the Womens Commissioner shall be elected by members of the Students Union. b.The Deputy Speaker shall be elected on the ticket of the Speaker as a running mate.

c.All other Ministers shall be appointed officers; nominated by the Speaker in consultation with the elected

executive members, vetted and approved by the Parliament.

d.The officers of the independent constitutional bodies shall be appointed per the relevant provisions in the

related articles of this constitution e.Qualifications of Executives

i.Candidates aspiring for Executive positions must have spent at least Four Semesters or Six Trimesters

reading a full-time course in the University.

ii. An academic qualification of a minimum of second class lower at the time of filing for nominations. iii.

Should not have been involved in any examination malpractice.

iv. Should not have been sanctioned by the disciplinary committee of the University.

v.The person should produce letters of reference from the Warden of his/her society, a Lecturer and Dean of

Citizens.

vi. Should be an active member of his/her society. vii. Should have been able to settle His/ Her fees as required by the University.

viii. Any executive who stands for re-election shall temporarily be granted a leave status upon a written

application to the Speaker otherwise He or She is considered resigned and will lose all privileges.

7

2. Election of Parliamentarians: a.The Members of Parliament shall be elected by their societies.

b.Each society shall elect Four (4) members representing the Morning, Evening and weekend streams. The

morning, evening and weekend MPs shall be elected during society meeting of their respective streams.

c.The Governors of the societies shall be automatic members of Parliament and shall serve as the Chief Whips of

their Society in Parliament and will be elected by societies on the General Election level. In the election of

Governors, the aspirant with the highest number of votes will be Governor and the second highest will be the

Deputy. In case where theres no aspirant for the Deputy Governor position, the elected Governor will appoint

one.

d.Qualifications of Members of Parliament:

i. Candidates aspiring for Parliamentary seats must have spent at least a Semester or a Trimester reading a full-time course in the University.

ii. An academic qualification of a minimum of second class lower at the time of filing for nominations.

iii. Should not have been involved in any examination malpractice.

iv. Should have been able to settle His/ Her fees as required by the University.

v. Should be an active member of His/ Her society e.Qualifications of Governors:

i. Candidates aspiring for Governor Positions must have spent at least Four Semesters or Six Trimesters reading a full-time course in the University.

ii. An academic qualification of a minimum of second class lower at the time of filing for nominations.

iii. Should not have been involved in any examination malpractice.

iv. Should not have been sanctioned by the disciplinary committee of the University.

v. The person should produce letters of reference from the Warden of his/her society, a Lecturer and Dean of Citizens.

vi. Should be an active member of his/her society.

vii. Should have been able to settle His/ Her fees as required by the University. 3. Procedure for elections: *All elections must be held during the third Friday and Saturday of April* a.For the avoidance of doubts, all aspiring candidates vying for the above positions as stated in ARTICLE V

clause 1 and 2 shall go through the electoral process as stated below before holding any position, unless otherwise

stated in this Constitution.

i.Filing of nominations by aspiring candidates. ii. Vetting of candidates by the Electoral Commission. The EC in consultation with the Chief Justice and the

Dean of Students Affairs shall form the vetting committee consisting not more than eleven (11) members. iii.

Notice of poll

iv. General election by the entire student body, by popular secret E-ballot (Electronic Ballot) or manual

voting that will be determined by the Electoral Commission. b.Winners in an election shall be declared on a First past the post basis.

8

c. Any candidate who stands unopposed, after the close of the filing of nominations shall not be declared winner but in such instance there shall be a referendum.

d.Where there is a tie in an election, there shall be fresh elections held between the candidates involved

within a maximum of seven (7) days.

e.All cases of irregularities during any election should be reported formally (in writing) to the office of the

Chief Justice for judicature within three (3) working days after the declaration of final results.

f.The office of the Chief Justice shall within seven (7) working days rule on any reported electoral

irregularity.

g.No member of the Electoral Commission shall stand for any election unless the member in question has duly

resigned the position previously held within the Commission.

h.No member of the Judiciary shall stand for any election unless the member in question has duly resigned the

position previously held within the Judiciary.

i.No Governor shall stand for any executive position unless the Governor in question has duly resigned the

position previously held within their Societies. j.Executives shall hold office for ONE ACADEMIC YEAR, renewable for a SECOND TERM ONLY, provided they are not in the final year.

k.Members of Parliament shall hold office for ONE ACADEMIC YEAR renewable for a second term or

more, provided they are not in the final year. 4. Bye-elections:

a.In the event of an office becoming vacant as a result of the officer resigning, removal from office, death,

prolonged illness, insanity or dismissal from the University, a bye-election shall be held to fill the vacant

position, within Twenty-eight (28) working days.

b.Such an election shall follow the laid down procedure as stipulated in this Constitution.

c.Any member of parliament who shall wish to contest a bye-election shall first duly resign the current office held.

d.In an event of a parliamentary seat becoming vacant under circumstances as in 4(a), a bye-election shall be held to fill the vacant position as stated in 4(a), (b) and (c). ARTICLE VII: THE EXECUTIVE 1. Definition:

a.The Executive, also referred to as the Executive Committee shall be a seven- member team as listed in

Article V, Clause 1 above.

b.It shall serve as the prime student leaders

c.It shall be the administrative and implementation arm of the governing structure of the RGSU entrusted with

the will of the members of the Regent Students. Union to carry such functions on their behalf as stipulated in

this constitution.

d.It shall implement the decisions and policies approved by the RGSP.

e.It shall ensure proper discipline amongst citizens and as well promote the rights and positive interests of

citizens. 2. The Rank, Powers and Functions of the members of the Executive

9

a. The Speaker of Parliament: shall i. Be the most senior officer (President) of the Regent Students Union.

ii. Be the chief spokesperson of the Regent Students Union.

iii. Represent the citizens on the University Council.

iv. Preside over all meetings of the Executive Committee, Parliament and the general student body in all matters coming under the jurisdiction of the Students Parliament.

v. Have the power to appoint the chairpersons and members of Parliamentary Ministries in conjunction with the members of the Executive unless otherwise stated in this constitution.

vi. Be a signatory to Bank Account(s) of the RGSU. b.The Deputy Speaker: shall

i. Be the second most senior officer (Vice President) of the Regent Students Union.

ii. Assist the Speaker to carry out the duties and functions of the office of the Speaker.

iii. Perform any relevant function as shall be assigned by the Speaker.

iv. Act as Speaker in the absence of the Speaker or in the event of the incapacitation of the Speaker or the inability of the Speaker to continue to perform the functions of the office of the Speaker stated in this constitution.

v. Represent the Regent Students. Union on the Universitys Wardens Council.

vi. Sit as Chairperson of the meeting of Governors once every month. c.The Clerk to Parliament: shall

i. Be the Scribe (The Administrative Secretary) of the Regent Students Union.

ii. Record and keep minutes of all Executive Committee, Parliamentary and General Student body meetings.

iii. Be responsible for the keeping of accurate and true records and all documents of the Union.

iv. Supervise the day-to-day running of the offices of the Regent Students Union and Be a signatory to the Regents Students Union Bank Accounts.

v. Perform any relevant function as shall be assigned by the Speaker, the Executive Committee and or Parliament.

d.Head of Finance and Planning: shall

i. Be the Head of Finance and Planning of the RGSU

ii. With the assistance of the Finance and Planning team prepare the annual budget of the administration of which they are members, within three (3) months from the date of election of the new leadership team.

iii. Keep the true and accurate financial records of the Regent Students Union including cheques and cash books and as well as take all moneys to the bank for safe keeping.

iv. Present a financial report to Parliament as and when it is needed by the House.

v. Perform any relevant function as shall be assigned by the Speaker, the Clerk, the Executive or Parliament.

vi. Be a signatory to RGSU bank accounts

vii. Shall approve all withdrawals and payments from any account of the RGSU by endorsement with his or her signature and seal of office if available.

viii. Shall be responsible for the determination and review of the amount to be held as imp rest when conditions demand it.

ix. Shall co-opt any other student for their expertise in the executing of his/her functions.

10

e. Any development or project, repairs, renovations and maintenance work undertaken by the RGSU shall be referred to the Finance and Planning for advice before approval by the speaker.

f.It shall be responsible for the review of the amount to be held as imp rest by Treasurer or Treasury

Department g.Shall co-opt other citizens with accounting and audit background for the speedy discharge of its functions when necessary. THE AUDIT & TREASURY DEPARTMENT The Head of Finance and planning shall form a treasury team comprising an internal auditor and an account officer not less than two members and not more than three persons.

i. The Treasury Department shall be headed by the Treasurer (a Level 300

ii. Accounting Student.

iii. The Treasury Department shall be the custodian of the Resources and

iv. Properties of the RGSU and shall be accountable for same. It shall therefore,

v. in its safe(s)

vi. Hold in trust for the Union its Cheque Books

vii. Keep petty cash for miscellaneous disbursement and account for same

viii. Keep an updated record of all properties of the RGSU h.The Internal Audit Department shall also be headed by a Level 300 Accounting Student and The Audit

Department shall be responsible for auditing all transactions of the RGSU and its agencies. The head of the Audit

Department shall not be a signatory to the RGSU Accounts, he/she and or his/her subordinate shall audit

(scrutinize) all budgets, transactions (payments, petty cash receipts, invoices, etc) to their satisfaction. i.Deputy Clerk (General Services)

i. Be responsible for the day to day clerical duties in the offices of the

ii. Regent Student Union. Assist the Clerk in the performance of the duties of that office.

iii. Act in the absence or incapacitation or inability of the Clerk to continue to perform the duties and functions of that office.

iv. Publicize the work of Executives and Parliament of the Citizens, Union as well as minutes of Parliamentary meetings.

j.Womens Commissioner: shall i.Be the leader of the Womens caucus of the Regent Students Union.

ii. Harness the intellectual capacity of female citizens with a view to sharpen them as tools for the solution of the

problems of female citizens.

iii. Disseminate and distil the view points on the problems of female citizens and their consequent solutions. iv.

Support female citizens in all their emancipator endeavors

v.Organize programs that will seek to prepare female citizens for a more responsible and responsive role in life

after school.

11

k.Deputy Clerk (Public Relations and Events): shall

i. Be responsible for the external relations and marketing of Regent Students Union to the outside world

ii. Coordinate affairs between the citizens body and Alumni

iii. Work in conjunction with the Alumni minister for the RGSU relationship with other sister SRCs

iv. Spearhead the marketing of the Regent University and her programs to Prospective students in Secondary Schools.

v. Assist and act in the absence or incapacitation of the Deputy Clerk (General Services)

vi. Publicize the activities of RGSU, her Collegiate System and Parliamentary to other tertiary institutions and the general public.

vii. Assist in planning and promoting events and meetings

3. Suspension and Removal of Members of the Executive Committee of the RGSU and the Independent

Constitutional Bodies:

a.The provisions under Article VIII Clause 5 notwithstanding, any member of the RGSU may by notice in writing

addressed to the judiciary, commence impeachment proceedings against any elected member of the Executive

Committee of the Union provided that such a notice shall be endorsed by signatories who form not less than

twenty percent (20%) of the entire citizens body with at least ten percent (10%) of the membership of each society

being signatories.

b.The Judiciary shall within seven days of receipt of the notice of impeachment examine and publish its

report on the issue(s) which shall be submitted to the various societies for debate or deliberations during

which the officer concerned shall have the right to state his or her case to a Citizens Assembly.

c.An officer of the Executive against whom impeachment charges have been preferred shall be officially

removed from office by a two-thirds majority of the votes cast by members of Parliament conducted for that

singular purpose under the supervision of the Chief Justice.

d.Any appointed member of the Executive Committee who fails to discharge his or her duties as set out in this

Constitution shall by a two-thirds majority decision of the Executive Committee convened for that purpose be

removed from office. e.Any member of the Executive Committee who acts in a way to bring the image of the RGSU into disrepute shall be removed from office in accordance with sections (a), (b), (c), and (d) above. ARTICLE VIII: PARLIAMENT 1. Definition:

a.Regent Ghana Students Parliament (RGSP) also referred to as Parliament shall be the Legislature and the

highest decision making body of the Regent Ghana Students Union b.It shall be responsible for the making and unmaking of laws that shall govern the RGSU. 2. Composition: - It shall be composed of a.The Entire membership of the Executive

12

b. The Governors of the Societies (Mckeown, Stott, Ubuntu, Nkrumah and Anim) who shall serve as the Chief Whips of their Caucuses in Parliament. c.Elected members of the Societies (four per Society representing the Morning, Evening and Weekend streams)

d.For the benefit of doubt, the numerical membership of Parliament shall be fifty-two (52), distributed as

follows:

i. The Executives seven (7)

ii. The Governors of the Societies (Chief Whips) five (5)

iii. The Elected Representatives of the Societies four (4) per Society making twenty (20)

iv. Eighteen appointed ministers (18).

v. Chief Justice (2) 3. Functions of Parliament: a.Making and unmaking of laws for the Students Union.

b.Periodically meeting with the management of the University to exchange ideas on matters of interest to both

management and the student body.

c.Meeting with citizens on a regular basis to update them on the state of the University. d.Organizing programs with the aim of enhancing the academic, social and intellectual lives of citizens. e.Acting as the ultimate voice of the Regent Students Union. f.Performing any other function deemed as appropriate and in the interest of the Regent Students Union. 4. Officers of Parliament and their Functions: a.The Speaker:

i. Shall preside over Parliamentary Sittings.

ii. Shall have a casting vote only when there is a deadlock in a debate on the floor of the house

iii. As the foremost officer of the Regent Students Union, shall once in each semester, report to Parliament on the State of the RGSU.

iv. Shall, at the end of the his/her term of office, present to Parliament a comprehensive report on the State of the RGSU

b.Deputy Speaker:

i. Shall preside over Parliamentary Sittings in the absence of the Speaker

ii. Shall perform all other duties of the Speaker in his/her absence and/or as

iii. shall be assigned by the Speaker c.The Clerk:

i. Shall be the chief scribe of Parliament; recording the proceedings of Parliament and making the

minutes of Parliamentary sittings available to members at least seven clear days before the next

regular scheduled sitting of Parliament.

ii. Shall be the administrator of Parliament

13

iii. Shall preside over the sitting of parliament in the absence of both the Speaker and Deputy Speaker. d.Deputy Clerk (General Services):

i. Shall, in Parliament, serve as the Deputy Clerk (an assistant to the Clerk)

ii. Shall be the second scribe in Parliament; taking meetings of the proceedings in Parliament concurrently with the Clerk

iii. Shall perform all other duties assigned to him/her by the Clerk e.The Chief Whips:

i. They shall be the leaders of the various Societal Caucuses in Parliament

ii. They shall constitute the Committee of Chief Whips (CCW) that shall vet the Speakers nomination of Ministers for Parliamentary approval or otherwise

iii. They shall, as a committee, also be responsible for the scrutiny of the RGSU budget and recommend its adoption or otherwise to the house

5. Suspension and Removal of Members of the Regent Ghana Citizens. Parliament: a.The provisions under Article VII Clause 3 notwithstanding, any Member of Parliament (including the

executive members with the exception of the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker) may be suspended from taking

part in two consecutive Parliamentary sittings at a properly constituted parliamentary meeting for a stated

offence or misconduct brought against such a member by another member on the floor of the house. b.Any allegation brought against a Member of Parliament by another member shall be referred to the Judiciary

for investigation and recommendation for suspension if proven to be guilty. The accused member shall be

offered the opportunity by the Judiciary to within seven working days of the accusation being brought against

him or her, defend him/herself.

c.A suspended Member of Parliament shall have the right of appeal against the suspension within seven days of

being served with the notice to that effect. d.Any officer, except those elected by the general student body, may be removed from office by Parliament for

inefficiency or negligent discharge of duties or acting in a manner prejudicial to the interest of the general student

body or Parliament or for proven misconduct by not less than 51% of the entire members present at a sitting.

e.Any Member of Parliament representing a particular society shall automatically cease to be a Member of

Parliament if a vote of no confidence is passed on such a member by the society represented or if adverse

findings are made against such a member by the Judiciary Committee and confirmed by Parliament.

f.A society may also impeach any of their Members of Parliament should they act in a manner prejudicial to the

societal rules and regulations. Such members shall automatically lose their seats in Parliament and be replaced by

new representatives of the societies concerned, elected through bye-elections supervised by the Electoral

Commission. NB: Majority, Minority and Independent in Parliament

Citizens appointed by the executive body vetted by the governors and approved in parliament as ministers will no longer

have voting rights in parliament but must be present at all parliamentary sittings. Ministers of the union will no longer

receive per year duce of a student as sitting allowance but shall receive per year duce of two (2) citizens as allowance on

semester basis. A member of parliament can double as MP and minister if appointed by executive and approved in

parliament.

Members who shall have voting rights in parliament shall be twenty - five (25).Twenty elected members of parliament(four

people from each society and the five governors).Two thirds (2/3)of the twenty five(25)members of parliament shall form

a quorum. The total number of members needed to form a quorum shall be sixteen (16) members of parliament.

14

Any member of any group (majority/minority) shall have the right to vote in favor of a motion or not but not necessarily in

the interest of the group (majority/minority).

Independent Body

The Chief Whips shall automatically become the independent body, they shall have voting rights in parliament.

ARTICLE IX: JUDICIARY

15

1. Definition: a.It shall be the legal arm of the governing structure of the RGSU

b.It shall be a single court of judicature that shall have powers to hear and rule on matters brought before it

between citizens, a student or group of citizens and an official of the Regent Students Union or member(s) of

Parliament.

c.It shall be an independent body: not subject to the control of the Executive or Parliament. 2. Membership and Officers:

a.It shall consist of seven (7) members of proven ability and unblemished record (none of which shall be a

sitting Parliamentarian); five (5) of which (one each) shall be nominated by the five societies represented in

Parliament.

b.The panel of members shall be headed by a Chief Justice nominated by the

Speaker and approved by Parliament. The Chief Justice must have spent at least four (4) semesters in the

University.

c.The Chief Justice shall be assisted by a Deputy Chief Justice who also shall be nominated by the Speaker (but

must not be from the same society as the Chief Justice) and approved by Parliament.

d.The Chief Justice shall empanel members to sit on cases before it

i. In all fresh cases, the Chief Justice shall empanel any three members to determine the case.

ii. In the event of a vanquished party appealing against the ruling of the court presided over by the three members, the CJ shall empanel five members (the previous three members inclusive) to consider the appeal.

iii. Again, in the event that the vanquished party appeals against the ruling of the court presided over by the five members, the CJ shall empanel the entire seven members (the previous five members inclusive) to finally determine the case.

3. Functions:

a.It shall have jurisdiction in every matter relating to the enforcement or interpretation of any provisions of the

constitution and in every matter where it is alleged that a person or body of persons have acted against the powers

conferred on them by this constitution.

b.It shall have the mandate to resolve conflicts between citizens or group of citizens c.It shall have the power to co-opt member(s) without voting rights on ad-hoc basis. d.It shall have the power to summon citizens or any Member of Parliament to appear before it to give evidence in matters before it. e.It shall have the appellate jurisdiction over all petitions lodged with the Electoral Commission and on all

constitutional matters lodged with the Judiciary

f.All impeachment proceedings against any member of the Executive shall be brought before it.

g.For smooth exercise of its function, it shall have power to do such things as shall be reasonably necessary

including the issuing of prerogative writs or orders such as Mandamus, certiorari and the creation of sub-

committees to deal with specific issues.

16

h. Except where the judiciary finds it advisable to sit in camera (private), all sitting shall be in public. i.Unless specifically provided in this constitution, the decision of the properly constituted panel of the judiciary in all matters shall be by simple majority. j.It shall be subject only to the provision of this constitution and the general rules and regulations of the

University.

k.It shall not be subject to the control or direction of any other person or authority. l.It shall however have power to consult the University Senate and Disciplinary Board.

m.It shall have power to prescribe any appropriate punishment having regard to the provisions of this

constitution provided the punishment so prescribed shall be capable of being enforced by the Student

Parliament or the general student body as the case may be. n.Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary, the judiciary through Parliament shall recommend any decision to the appropriate authority for implementation.

o.It shall appoint a recorder who shall take accurate record of its proceedings during sittings. 4. Suspension, Removal or Resignation of Members of the Judiciary:

a.In proven cases of misdemeanors or misconduct on the part of a member or the whole judiciary, Parliament shall

institute disciplinary action or proceedings against the member(s) of the judiciary upon the complaint of any

member of the Union.

b.Any member of the Judiciary who wishes to resign his or her position on the Judiciary Committee shall follow the procedure outlined under Article XIV Clause 2 c.In the situation where the Judiciary Committee is resigning en-bloc, Parliament shall consider application and

if accepted, initiate an immediate process to replace the resign members according to Article IX Clause 2a, b,

and c. ARTICLE X: ELECTORAL COMMISSION 1. Definition:

a.It shall be the only institution within the Regent Ghana Students. Union mandated by this constitution to

organize and supervise all elections within the Union.

b.It shall be an independent body: not subject to the control of the Executive or Parliament c.The Chair shall be designated as the Electoral Commissioner

17

2. Membership and Officers: a.It shall be a thirteen member body comprising

i. Two representatives from each society, one of which shall be a Level 100 student and the other level 200 student but are not members of Parliament or the Executive at the time of nomination to serve on the Commission

ii. Two Deputy Commissioners (Vice-Chairpersons) who shall be appointed by the Electoral

Commissioner, however be level 300 citizens but are not members of Parliament or the Executive

must not belong to the same Society

iii. A Commissioner (Chairperson) who shall be a level 300 student at the time of his/her appointment as Commissioner but not a member of Parliament or the Executive

iv. The term of office of the Electoral Commissioner shall expire (when the new speaker and executive members of the Union are sworn into office).

v. The above notwithstanding, the first Commissioner and the first set of Deputies to be appointed after the promulgation of this revised constitution shall be nominated by the Chief Whips from among members of their societies and elected by Parliament.

b.Functions:

i. The commission, under the chairmanship of the Commissioner shall be responsible for the conduct of all Regent Students. Union elections, referenda and opinion polls by secret ballot or electronic polls.

ii. The Commission may make rules and regulations of procedures for the exercise and execution of its functions subject to the rules and regulations governing the conduct of RGSU/Parliamentary elections as stipulated in this constitution.

iii. The Commissioner shall chair Vetting of candidates by the Electoral Commission.(The EC shall

form the vetting committee considering the following offices; The Executives, The Deans, The

Academic secretary, The Educational Support Services, Guidance and counseling Unit, The

Chaplaincy and Governors ) for the purpose of screening nominees.

iv. The chairman of the Screening Committee (the Electoral Commissioner) shall only have a casting vote when members of the committee are equally divided on whether to approve a nominee or not.

3. Suspension, Removal and Resignation of Members of the Electoral Commission a.In proven cases of misdemeanors or misconduct on the part of a member electoral commission, judiciary shall

institute disciplinary action or proceedings against the member(s) of the commission upon the complaint of any

member of the Union in accordance with Article VII, Clause 3. b.Any member of the Commission who wishes to resign his or her position on the shall follow the procedure outlined under Article XIV Clause 2 c.In the situation where the Electoral Commission is resigning en-bloc, the judiciary shall consider application

and if accepted, initiate an immediate process to replace the resign members according to Article X Clause 2 a, (i)

to (v)

18

ARTICLE XI: THE COMPOSITION AND FUNCTIONS OF THE MINISTRIES

1. External Affairs and Alumni Relations Ministry a.Shall be headed the sector minister.

b.Shall be responsible for RGSU.s relationship with all bodies and organizations outside the Union with the

exception of the Authorities of the University. Such bodies and organizations may include but not limited to the

following:

i. The Private Universities Students Association of Ghana (PUSAG)

ii. SRCs of Sister Private and Public and Foreign Universities.

iii. SRCs of Second Cycle institutions whose citizens are prospective citizens of RUCST

iv. Sponsors of the RGSU and her activities v.Alumni Associations of the University c.Shall be responsible for public relations and marketing of the RGSU and RGSP 2. Research and Academics Ministry a.Shall be headed by the sector minister. b.Shall consist of all class secretaries.

c.Shall advise Parliament on academic concerns of citizens regarding teaching, research, content of courses,

facilities in the lecture rooms, laboratories and equipment, library facilities, examinations and how they are

conducted, invigilation, examination results, vacation training, lecturer-student relationship, etc.

d.Shall cooperate with the Academic office to find solutions to all issues pertaining to citizens academic life.

e.Shall organize academic events and contest like debates, quizzes, seminars and workshops for the students

body. 3. Spiritual Affairs & Welfare Ministry a.Shall be headed by the sector minister. b.Shall consist of the Welfare Committee representatives from the Societies.

c.Shall investigate all matters relating to citizens welfare, boarding and lodging, financial and spiritual

problems etc. and report its findings to the Citizens Parliament for necessary action to be taken. 4. Entrepreneurship and ICT Ministry a.Shall be headed by the sector minister

b.Shall consist of the Publicity officers of the various Societies and co-opted citizens with strong ICT and

media background; the total number not exceeding ten (10)

c.Shall be responsible for the publication of RGSU Magazine and other publications d.Shall also manage the Unions, website, information database, and statistics. e. Shall consist of citizens with strong IT and research background, two (2) from each society. f. Shall be responsible for the promotion of entrepreneurial and innovative activities. g. The RGSU website shall be among the main channel of information dissemination 5. Sports Ministry a.Shall be headed by the sector minister. b.Shall consist of the Games, Sports and Fitness Coordinators of the various Societies (a male and female per society). c.Shall be responsible for the organization of all Games, Sports and Fitness events in the University. d.Shall solicit for sponsorship for events it shall organize and account for same.

e.Shall organize inter-societal games and sporting activities to select and prepare the Universities teams in

various disciplines for inter-university games and sporting activities.

f.Shall acquire sporting and games equipment and kits from its allocated and generated funds.

19

6. Entertainment Ministry a.Shall be headed by the sector minister.

b.Shall consist of the Entertainment and Recreation Coordinators of the various societies (a male and female from

each society).

c.Shall be responsible for the organization of all entertainment and recreational activities and events

(including excursions and tours) of the RGSU.

d.Shall solicit for sponsorship for its activities and events and shall account for same. 7. Finance Ministry a.Shall be headed by the sector minister b.Shall work closely with the Deputy Clerk (Finance) with Finances of the Union.

8. Intelligence and Students Affairs Ministry

a. Shall have a sector minister and deputy minister

b. The RGSU cadet corps shall be under this ministry

c. Shall ensure peace and order in all RGSU activities

d. The RGSU cadet corps shall provide a commander to be the Marshall in parliament to every new administration.

NB:

All sector ministry shall have one deputy except for sports, games and fitness which shall have two deputies,

one male and one female. The External Affairs Ministry shall also have two deputies with the second deputy

serving as a representative of foreign students.

Committees

All ministries shall have a sub-committee in parliament.

Each committee shall have not less than two people or not more than three people.

Members of a committee shall be solely members of parliament appointed by the sector minister and the deputy.

Members of any committee shall not be entitled to any allowance otherwise on errands by that ministry.

Any committee under any ministry shall help and make sure that ministry execute it task.

Health Committee

The health committee shall be headed by the deputy clerk general service.

The health shall liaise with the school nurse to help provide first aid at any RGSU activity.

Womens Commissioner Committee

Shall be headed by the deputy womens commissioner

Shall work hand in hand with the womens commissioner

20

ARTICLE XII: SUSPENSION, REMOVAL & AND RESIGNATION OF OFFICERS

1. The suspension and removal from office of any

a.Member of the Executives of the Regent Citizens. Union and any minister shall be in accordance with

Article VII, Clause 3 of this constitution.

b.Officer or member of the Regent Ghana Citizens. Parliament shall be in accordance with Article VIII,

Clause 5 2. The resignation of any member of the Executive, any officer or member of Parliament and any minister from office shall be according to the follow procedure:

21

a. Any officer of Parliament, except those elected by the general student body, may resign his or her post voluntarily. Any such resignation shall be communicated to the Speaker in writing, seven (7) days before the date

of resignation after which Parliament shall meet and either accepts or reject such resignation.

b.Any officer of Parliament and for that matter of the Executive, elected by the general student body, wishing to

resign his or her position shall communicate the intention to the Executive committee in writing fourteen (14) days

before the date of resignation and the Executive Committee shall meet and either accept or reject such resignation. c.In the event of any officer elected by the general student body resigning, the executive committee shall make his

or her intentions known to the entire student body within four (4) days on receipt of his or her resignation letter

and appoint a Member of Parliament to act in the office vacated thereof until fresh elections are held.

d.In the event of en-bloc resignation of the Executive Committee, the Judicial Committee shall meet to either

accept or reject such resignation. In the event of the Judicial Committee accepting, the committee shall appoint

members of parliament to take up the post so vacated till fresh elections are held

e.Any officer relinquishing his or her post shall immediately hand over all documents and property of Parliament

to the Executive committee and if the Executive Committee itself resigns en-bloc, all documents and property

shall be handed over immediately to the Judicial Committee.

3. Members of the Judiciary and the Electoral Commission cannot be suspended or removed from office by the

Executive. 4. It is only Parliament that can impeach members of the Judiciary after a complaint has been filed against any one of them. In such situation, the procedure to be followed is as outlined under Article VII Clause 3. 5. However, in the specific case of members of the Judiciary, Parliament shall hear and investigate the

petition as the Judiciary would have done and take a decision on it accordingly. ARTICLE XIII: FINANCE 1. Revenue: a.All citizens of the University and for that matter, all members of the RGSU shall pay Union Dues each

semester; the amount of which shall be determined by each new executive in conjunction with Parliament and

the Dean of Citizens.

b.For the purpose of motivation and raising funds in financing activities of the Union, any person who

directly helps in raising some form of sponsorship shall be compensated with ten percent (10%) of the

amount raised. c.Citizens shall pay societal dues which shall be fifty percent of the Union dues. This means that:

i. All such dues collected shall be transferred into the Unions Account until the society has its constitution in place.

ii. The Union shall therefore distribute the amount collected to the officers in charge based on a draft budget prepared by the Governor shown to the wardens and approved by the Dean (Societies and students. Development) and submitted to the Union. This is to facilitate societal activities.

d. The dues, which must be paid per semester, shall in the interim be collected on behalf of the Union by the accounts office of the University as part of citizens. School Fees until such time that the Union establishes its own

accounts office to collect the dues directly from citizens.

e.Pending the establishment of its own accounts office, the University accountant shall every month, upon

receipt of School Fees, calculate and transfer the RGSU Dues component into the current account of the

Union.

f.The RGSU shall deposit ninety percent (90%) of all its income in its current account and ten percent (10%) an

investment account for the purpose of financing memorial projects that shall be determined by Parliament. 2. Disbursement:

a.The Unions funds shall be disbursed in accordance with the budget of each new Executive of the RGSU,

prepared and submitted to Parliament by its Minister for Finance and Planning for approval.

b.Before disbursement, ten percent (10%) of the fund shall be lodged in an investment account against

projects. c.Funds shall be disbursed for:

i.

ii.

iii.

iv.

Activities and functions as Parliament may approve

Administration expenses

Welfare concerns (Such as deaths of a citizen) Any Productive venture that will provide revenue for Parliament. This must be discussed among the Executives

v. Affiliation dues (PUSAG dues etc.) Vi. One tenth (1/10) of each years budget shall be channeled to the welfare scheme

Any other relevant expenses deemed necessary g.The Head of Finance and Planning shall keep the Accountable Impress for the day-to-day running of the

Student Parliament

h.Signatories to the Bank accounts shall be: 1. The Speaker 2. The Deputy Speaker 3. The Clerk 4. The Head of Finance and Planning 5. The Dean (Societies and Citizens Development) or The Universitys Accountant.

i.The Speaker or the Deputy Speaker and Clerk together with the Head of Finance and Planning shall sign to

withdraw money from the account of the Students Union.

j.In the absence of one of the mandatory signatories stated in (I) above, The Dean (Societies and Citizens

development) or The Universitys Accountant. k.All withdrawal notices shall pass through the office of the dean before the money is withdrawn.

23

l. Except for petty cash expenses, all payments by Parliament beyond Two Hundred Ghana Cedis (GH200.00) shall be made by means of cheques duly crossed and supported by approved vouchers.

m.Parliament shall operate within a planned financial forecast prepared 28 days after coming into office. n.At the first sitting of the New Parliament, there shall be a Final Auditors Report that shall be laid before the New Parliament. o.In case of established embezzlement, the culprit shall be given twenty-eight days to refund all the money. After

failing to pay the said amount within the specified period, then as the last resort, the culprit shall be handed over

to Universitys management or the police ARTICLE XIV: REMUNERATION AND HONORARIA 1. Executives of the Regent Citizens Union 2. Members of Parliament 3. Ministers 4. Judiciary 5. Electoral Commission a.Members of the Executive shall receive remuneration on monthly basis.

i. The Speaker shall receive per year dues of ten (10) citizens on monthly basis

ii. The Deputy Speaker shall receive per year dues of nine( 9) student on a monthly basis

iii. The Clerk shall receive per year dues of eight (8) citizens on a monthly basis

iv. The Deputy Clerk (General Services) shall receive per year dues of six (6) citizens on a monthly basis

v. The Head of Finance and Planning shall receive per year dues of seven(7) citizens on a monthly basis

vi. The Womens Commissioner shall receive year dues of seven (7) citizens on a monthly basis

vii. The Deputy Clerk (Public Relations, and Events) shall receive year dues of seven (7) citizens on a monthly basis

b.The Executive members of Parliament shall each receive per year dues of two (2) students each after every

Parliamentary sitting as allowance

c.Members of Parliament shall each receive per year dues of one (1) student after each Parliamentary sitting as

allowance.

d. The chief justice and deputy shall receive per year dues of two (2) students after every parliamentary sitting as allowance

e. Honoraria for Electoral Commission:

i.General Election Commissioner- shall take per year dues of ten (10) citizens. Deputy Commissioners- shall take per year dues of six (6) citizens. Other two (2) members- shall take per year dues of five (5) citizens. ii. Bye-election Commissioner- shall take per year dues of one (1) citizen.

Deputy Commissioners- shall take per year dues of one (1) citizen.

Other two (2) members- shall take per year dues of one (1) citizen.

24

e. HONORARIA i.The vacation residence feeding costs and other incidental expenses of the Executive and any other Student on Parliamentary assignments shall be paid out of the student Parliament funds. The amount to be paid is subject to the approval of Executives on behalf of parliament in cases where parliament is not in session ii. Certificates of office shall be presented to Members of Parliament on the day of handing over by the

University's Registrar.

iii. Certificates of membership shall be presented to Members of Parliament at the end of their term of office iv. No regime shall after the promulgation of this reviewed constitution create more than ten (10) honorary

fellows of parliament or of The Union, unless otherwise the regime has a legitimate reason to do so and does so

by making parliament pass a resolution to overrule this provision.

v.Parliament shall have an insignia which shall be kept at the Student Parliament office under the custody of the

Executive and used at every parliamentary sitting vi. The judiciary shall have an insignia which shall be kept at the Student Parliament office under the custody of the speaker and be used at the judiciarys sittings. vii. End of service benefits hereinafter known as REGENT ASEDA for all office holders shall be

cumulatively FIVE SITTING ALLOWANCES.

This provision notwithstanding the regime shall through parliament review the package based on amount in the

Unions Account. ARTICLE XV: ADOPTION AND AMENDMENT OF CONSTITUTION

1. Amendment of entrenched provisions

a.Any notice for revision or amendment of any provision of this Constitution shall be made known to the

judiciary and published to Citizens. In case of a total revision, a constitutional review committee shall be set up

by Parliament to collate views of citizens. The committee shall within the stipulated period given by parliament

present a report to parliament. Parliament shall through the governors make available to Citizens the reviewed

draft of the constitution

b.Any meeting convened by the societies under this article shall be decided by a two-third majority of

members at that meeting. A simple majority of all the societies is required to effect the total revision

c.The constitution shall become operative upon critical study by Parliament and approval of the first

Parliamentary sitting

d.Notice for the revision or amendment of any provision of this constitution may be made by the Members of

Parliament or by any student in writing and submitted to the judiciary

e.Such a notice in the latter case shall be supported by at least one hundred Citizens with at least twenty citizens from each Society whose signature shall be appended

f.The judiciary shall sit within fifteen days of the receipt of any valid notice of amendment of revision

25

g. The judiciary shall submit its report to Parliament. Parliament within 10 working days of receipt of the report shall send it to the various societies for debate

2. Amendment of Non-entrenched provision

a.An amendment, like a main motion, must be moved, seconded and discussed in accordance with procedure for

motions outlined above

b.No amendment shall be moved, which by the Speakers ruling, rescinds, negates or destroys the original

motion c.If an amendment be rejected, other amendments may be moved on the original motion. If an amendment be

carried, the motion as amended shall become the motion and shall be the question to which any further discussion

may be addressed or upon which the final vote is taken. ARTICLE XVI: INTERPRETATION OF THE CONSTITUTION

1. The judicial committee shall have powers to rule on matters which the constitution shall be silent or ambiguous and such rulings shall be expressed in precise terms and shall be subject to the approval of the Executive committee and the general student body until amended or revoked in accordance with the provisions of ARTICLE XVI of this constitution 2. He., his., him., chairman. as used in this constitution shall refer to any Citizen, male or female 3. Society. as used in this constitution shall refer to the various constituencies of the University Community ARTICLE XVII: APPENDIX

1. SPECIAL EVENTS Parliament shall hold Special events annually, such as:

a.Parliamentary Week Celebrations, which shall be held in the second week of November, every year

b.Handing-over ceremony, every year, after elections are held for new members of the Executive and

Members of Parliament

c.Each Society shall have an annual Societal week celebration

d.Parliament shall organize special events as deemed necessary to be held, provided it is in the interest of

Citizens.

2. POWER TO MAKE BYE-LAWS

a.Parliament shall within the scope of its authority under this constitution make bye-laws relating to the

matters under its control and powers

b.All bye-laws shall be in writing and should be subject to the approval of the judicial committee and shall come

in to force when signed by the Speaker of

Parliament

26

3. GENERAL MEETINGS

a.Parliament shall at any time the need arises convene a forum or general meeting of the student body at a

designated place on campus for the sole purpose of discussing or announcing matters that affect the general

welfare of its Citizens

b.Two hundred Citizens of the entire student body shall form a quorum c.A special meeting of the student body shall be called on the request of hundred citizens with at least twenty from

each Society who shall subscribe their names and signatories to the request, stating the business to be considered at

such a special meeting d.All decisions shall be determined by a simple majority

e.Matters of impeachment shall not form the basis of such a forum, such matters being the proper domain of the

judiciary 4. PARLIAMENTARY MEETINGS

a.Ordinary parliamentary meetings shall be held within the periods determined by that Parliament at its first

sitting at a designated place. The Ministers of the various Ministries and MPs shall report on the state of Citizen

Life at such meetings on the request of the Executive

b.Two-thirds of the members shall form a quorum c.With the exception of the Executive members, any Member of Parliament who absents himself on two

consecutive occasions without any acceptable reasons shall be suspended from parliament according to

ARTICLE XII of this constitution. The body which he or she represents shall be notified accordingly d.Particulars of the business to be transacted at any meeting of Parliament shall be stated in the notice convening

the meeting which shall be issued to members at least three (3) days before the date fixed for the meeting.

Emergency meetings shall however be convened at shorter notices e.All such decisions taken during the meeting shall be determined by a simple majority of the members

present by voting unless otherwise stated

f.In the event of a member of the Executive absenting himself from meetings for two consecutive times without

an acceptable reason, he shall be suspended in accordance with ARTICLE XII of this constitution

g.All emergency meetings of Parliament shall be convened by the Executive or on written request of fifteen

members of the Student Parliament who shall subscribe their names and signatures to the written request stating

the business to be considered. No other business shall be considered by parliament at such an emergency

meeting. Such a meeting shall be held within three days of receiving such request

h.The dress code for all Parliamentary meetings shall be formal (Gents must always be in shirt and tie and

ladies dress formal or National.) i.The use of mobile phones is strictly prohibited at all meetings. Any member who violated this shall be sanctioned as deemed fit be the Speaker in consultation with the Executive.

27

STANDING ORDERS FOR VOTING AT MEETINGS

I.Voting shall be by accredited members. Each accredited member shall be entitled to one vote II. Voting

privileges shall include the right of members to take or second motions or nominations III. In voting, motions

shall be carried by a simple majority, unless otherwise provided for by the constitution or the standing orders. The

casting of votes shall be in the following order: vote for, against and abstentions. If the votes for and against an

issue are equal in number, the chairman shall exercise the casting. Members abstaining shall be considered as

non-voting

IV. Voting shall be by a show of hands or as determined by the Speaker, unless otherwise stated by the

constitution WORKING PAPERS

1. A working paper shall be adopted before work begins on it. However, a motion can introduce any relevant item

for the agenda for discussion MOTIONS: 2. All accredited members have the right to file motions or proposals. However non-accredited members may file motions on when such motions are seconded by three accredited members

3. All motions shall be submitted in writing and must be handed over to the speaker of parliament. They must at all

times 4. No motion or amendment shall be open for discussion until it has been seconded but the proposer shall have the right to speak on the motion in order to find one.

5. No matter shall be discussed until it concerns an approval to the agenda except with the permission of the

house

6. A motion shall only be opened for discussion or amendment after the proposer and the fellow seconding

have the opportunity to speak in support of the motion. The debate must be limited to the immediately pending

question by the Speaker. The Speaker shall rule out or order any speaker failing to adhere to the subject of

discussion 7. Discussion of a motion (or amendment) may be curtailed in time by a procedural motion from the floor or by the chair, with the approval of the meeting

8. No motion or amendment which has been accepted by the meeting shall be revoked and neither shall any

addendum be made to a motion once accepted without such consent. If the Speaker intends to curtail discussion, however, he shall make it clear how much time shall be allowed

provided that the mover and the speaker against such motion shall in all cases have the right to speak if wishing

to do so.

TOTAL REVIEW AND AMENDMENTS

The total review of this constitution after it has been enacted shall be in five years period. The amendment of any

provision in this constitution shall be done as required in this constitution (ARTICLE XV)

ORDER OR PRECEDENCE

The Speaker shall allow the following procedural motions to be put when there is already a proposition on the

table in the following order of precedence:

a.Motion to withdraw motion b.Motion to recess c.Motion to reverse the decision of the Speaker

28

d. Motion that a question or a proposal not be mentioned now e.Motion to limit or expand debate to a certain specified period of time f.Motion to refer the matter to a committee or sub-committee for investigation and report g.Motion to postpone or adjourn the matter to a latter specific meeting or time h.Motion to close debate i.Motion that the motion be now voted upon 1. If the motion that the motion be now voted has been seconded, no further discussion of the original question shall be allowed, but a member may give notice of his desire to speak further on the original question.

If the motion is carried, only the proposer of the original question under discussed period shall be allowed to

speak before the original question is put to the vote.

2. If the motion to limit debate to a certain specified period of time is carried, the Speaker shall draw up a list of those wishing to make their first speech on the subject and allow each one an equal proportion of the specified

period. The proposer shall be allowed a maximum of five minutes to sum up before the original motion is put to

vote

3. Should any procedural motion be defeated, 25 minutes hall pass before such a motion can be accepted again

be the Speaker, unless the Speaker is off the opinion that the circumstances have materially altered in the

meantime OTHER INTERVENTIONS

In addition to discussion on an issue, the speaker shall recognize those requesting the floor by the following

order or precedence

a.Point of order b.Point of correction c.Point of information

1. A point of order which must be heard at all times except during the act of voting must deal with the conduct of

procedure of the meeting and concern only such matters as indecorum transgressions of the standing orders,

transgression of the constitution, calling attention to the introduction of a matter not relevant to the question under

consideration an date use of improper language 2. A point of correction shall be a factual presentation seeking to correct a statement made by the last speaker. It must be strictly related to the subject under immediate discussion

3. If information is desired from or ordered to a person holding ht floor, he may decide whether or not he wish

sot be interrupted at that time CONDUCT OF A MEETING

1. A speaker shall direct his speech to the issue under discussion. Every member shall address himself solely to the speaker

2. No member shall be allowed to speak more than once on a motion as long as a member who has not

spoken on that motion desires the floor. No member shall speak for longer that ten minutes at one time

without permission of the speaker

3. Any more standing orders may in case of urgency or after notice duly given, be suspended or changed at any

meting so far as regards business at that particular meetings provided that there is two-thirds majority in favor. PROCEDURE FOR HANDING OVER

29

a. The ruling leadership shall after its last sitting close parliament officially at the venue of handing over

b. The Chief Justice of the ruling leadership shall swear the Speaker

II. elect into office

III. The Speaker will then swear in the new Chief Justice and the new

IV. Chief Justice shall then swear in members of parliament

V. The new Speaker will officially open the new parliament and close the

VI. business of the day

VII. The out gone executive shall exchange the sword of authority and the

HANDING OVER This pact is made between the Regent Ghana Citizens. Union of the _______/________ academic year hereinafter termed the out-going and The Regent Ghana Citizens. Union of the _____/______ academic year hereinafter termed the incoming headed by Rt. Hon________________________ and Rt. Hon._________________________________ respectively. Now therefore the two parties affirm as follows; Out-going Affirmation:

We the outgoing Executives and parliament of the Regent Ghana Citizens Union do hereby hand over the administration of The Regent Ghana Citizens. Union to the in-coming Executives and parliament to serve as the

highest decision making body of the union for the next academic year as established by the constitution being the

ultimate voice of the Regent Ghana Citizens Union. We affirm our undaunted support and counsel for the in-coming Executives and Parliament in all ways that may not exceed our capacity and strength as former Honorable

members of the Executive, Members of parliament, Members of the Judiciary and the electoral Commission of

the Regent Ghana Citizens Union.

To this end we bestow unto the in-coming Executive, Members of parliament, and Members of the Judiciary and

the electoral Commission of the Regent Ghana Students Union the legitimate mandate to serve the Regent

Ghana Citizens. Union in all honesty, sincerity, humility and dedication to duty.

We so affirm, God be our helper. In-comings Affirmation

We the in-coming Executive, Members of parliament, Members of the Judiciary and the electoral Commission

of the Regent Ghana Citizens Union do hereby accept the leadership mandate bestowed upon us by the

constitution and the out-going leadership of The Regent Ghana Citizens Union.

We affirm our dedication to democracy, the rule of law and the promotion and safeguarding of the rights of the

citizens of Regent Ghana, having been mandated and empowered to address issues concerning student

governance and representation with one voice, being the constitution of The Regent Ghana Citizens Union. We

affirm our honesty, sincerity and dedicated service to the Regent Ghana Citizens Union as Honorable members

in the pursuit of our duties in this high office.

In witness whereof, the in-coming and the out-going has caused this pact to be executed in the names of the

respective speakers who have appended their signatures as of this day, month and year as stated herein. Date

(Out-going Speaker) Date (In-coming Speaker)

30

PARLIAMENTARY OATHS

OATH OF ALLEGIENCE

I.do (in the name of the

almighty God swear) (solemnly affirm) that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Regent

Ghana Citizens Union as established by law; that I will uphold the sovereignty and integrity of

Regent Ghana and that I will preserve, protect and defend the constitution of the Regent

Ghana Citizens. Parliament. So help me God. THE SPEAKERS OATH

I. do (in the name of the

almighty God swear) (solemnly affirm) that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Regent

Ghana Citizens Union as established by law; that I will uphold the sovereignty and integrity of

Regent Ghana and that I will preserve, protect and defend the constitution of the Regent

Ghana Citizens. Parliament; and that I will do right to all manner of people in accordance with

the laws and conventions of Regent Ghana and constitution the of the Citizens. Parliament

without fear of favour, affection or ill will. So help me God OATH OF A MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT

I. do (in the name of

the almighty God swear) (solemnly affirm) that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the

Regent Ghana Citizens Union as established by law; that I will uphold the sovereignty and

integrity of Regent Ghana and that I will preserve, protect and defend the constitution of the

Regent Ghana Citizens. Parliament and that I will faithfully and conscientiously discharge the

duties of a Member of Parliament. So help me God OATH OF A MEMEBR BEFORE A PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE OR COMMISSION OR COUNCIL

I (swear by Almighty God) (Solemnly affirm) that the evidence I shall give before this committee or

commission or council, touching on the matter in issue shall be the truth, the whole truth and

nothing but the truth. So help me God.