NAMIBIA  
     
  NIGERIA  
     
  SOUTH AFRICA  
     
  YEMEN  
     
  JORDAN  
     
   EGYPT  
     
  OMAN  
     
   MOROCCO  
     
  ALGERIA  
     
  SAUDI ARABIA  
     
   BAHRAIN  
     
   QATAR  
     
  BOTSWANA  
     
  ETHIOPIA  
     
  GABON  
     
  MAURITANIA  
     
  SWAZILAND  
     
  SUDAN  
     
  KINSHASA  
     
  BURUNDI  
     
  MADAGASCAR  

      RWANDA
Information on Members councils of the association of senates, Shoora and Equivalent councils in Africa and the Arab world.  

1. The National Council of Provinces of South Africa
2. The Nation's Council of Algeria
3. The House of Chiefs of Botswana
4. The House of the Federation of Ethiopia
5. The Senate of Gabon
6. Al-Ayan Council of Jordan
7. The Senate of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania
8. The House of Counsellors of Morocco
9. The National Council of Namibia
10. The Senate of Nigeria
11. The Senate of Swaziland
12. The Shoora Council of Yemen
13. States' Council of Sudan
14. The Shoora Council of Saudi Arabia
15. The Shoora Council of Qatar
16. State's Council of Oman
17. The Shoora Council of Bahrain
18. The Shoora Council of Egypt
19. The Senate of Congo Kinshasa
20. The Senate of Burundi
21. The Senate of Madagascar

 
INFORMATION ON THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF NAMIBIA  

There are 26 members in the National Council of Namibia all elected. 19 males and 7 females from the regional council for a period of 6 years. One must have been up to 21 years of age, a Namibia citizen, sound mind and must not have been convicted prior to independence for an offence for which he or she has been sentenced to death or to imprisonment for a period of more than 12 months without an option of fine, unless he or she has received a free pardon or such imprisonment has expired at least 10 years prior to the date of election.

A member can also be removed before the end of the tenure by the Regional Council or by his or her political party or if the member cresses the floor for reasons of a decline in his membership of the political party that elected him or if he as a member of a Regional Council absents himself or herself without leave of the Regional Council on three consecutive sittings of the Regional Council and his or her absence is not condoned by the Regional Council.

The chamber is convened by a notice circulated by the office of the Secretary of the National Council to the 13 Regional Councils informing them of the date of the first meeting of the Council.
There is no constitutional provision for the dissolution of the chamber.

On the relation between the National Council and the lower chamber, bills are first introduced in the lower chamber and then referred to the upper chamber for review. There is no fixed number of times that the Council must sit in a year.

PRINCIPAL OFFICERS
The Presiding Officer of the Council is called the Chairman. He is elected at the same time with other members for a six-year tenure then elected as Chairman at the first meeting of the Council by a simple majority vote 50 + 1. The Presiding Officer can also be removed before the end of his tenure through the same process – simple majority of the members of the Council by passing a vote of no confidence. When removed, he can still retain his seat as a member of the Council.

His functions include the following:
1. Presides over sessions of the National Council.
2. Maintains order during the sessions/debates.
3. Makes rulings
4. Acts as the spokesperson of the National Council.

There is no official order of precedence in Namibia.

Other Principal Officers of the National Council of Namibia are:
(a) Vice Chairperson – elected by the Council.
(b) Leader of the Official oppositions
(c) Chief Whip of the Ruling Party
(d) Chairpersons of Committees
(e) Deputy Chief Whip of the Ruling Party
(f) Assistant Whip

Different political parties elect these Principal Officers.

The Principal Officer can be removed if a vote of no confidence is passed on him through the same process by which he was elected.

A brief outline of the functions of other Principal Officers who are also elected as follows:
1. The Vice Chairperson is the Chairperson of the Committee of the whole Council and acts in the place of the Chairman in his absence. He is the coordinator of committees.
2. The Leader of the opposition acts as the head of the opposition Minority Party in the National Council.
3. The Chief Whip of the Ruling Party is the head of the Members of the Majority Party in the House and his or her functions are at a political level and to ensure that his or her party members attend sessions and vote in accordance with the mandates received from their Party.
4. Chairpersons of Committees chair the Committee meetings and table reports of committees in the House.
5. Deputy Chief Whip stands in for the Chief Whip when the latter is absent.
6. Assistant Whip takes the minutes during their caucus meetings.

COMMITTEE SYSTEM
There are 9 Committees in the Council each having between 4 to 6 members. The Chairman of the Council also belongs to a Committee. They are selected for the same period as the tenure of office. Bills are referred to the Committees to examine them and report back to the House. It is the Committee’s responsibility to obtain public input in the Bills.

The structure of the Committees is as follows:
1. Committees Coordinator.
2. Chairperson of the Committee.
3. Vice Chairperson of Committees.
4. Committee Clerks

The Committees are classified into two:
1. In-House Committees
2. Standing Committee (Port folio)

There are no particular qualifications for the Chairs of the Committees. The Chairmen of the Committees are appointed by the Committee on Standing Rules and Orders.

The Committee Chairs have the following as duties:
1. Chairing of Committee Meetings
2. Table reports of Committees
3. Coordinate Committee’s activities
4. Convene meetings of Committees

POLITICAL PARTIES
There are three Political Parties represented in the Namibian Council:
1. SWAPO: South West Africa Peoples Organization – 92.31%
2. DTA: Democratic Turn hale Alliance – 3.84%
3. UDF: United Democratic Front – 3.84%

FUNCTIONS OF THE CHAMBER
The Council has oversight functions with regards to other arms of Government but is not involved in anyway in the foreign policy process of the country.

A Brief Outline of the Functions of the Council:
1. The Council reviews Bills.
2. It investigates and report to the National Assembly on any subordinate legislation, which is referred to it by the National Assembly for Advice.
3. The Council recommends legislation on the matters of regional concern for submission and consideration by the National Assembly.
4. It performs any other functions assigned to it by the National Assembly or by an Act of Parliament.

At a resolution adopted by the House can amend or suspend its rules. The Chamber also controls discipline among its members.

On immunity, no member shall be liable to any civil or criminal proceedings, arrest, imprisonment or damages by reason of anything done in the exercise of his or her right to freedom of speech in parliament or whilst taking part in any proceeding in parliament.

The staff of the Council are recruited by the Public Service Commission of Namibia and funds are released to it by the Ministry of Finance.

A Brief Outline of the Structure of the Council:
1. Office of the Secretary – Secretary of the National Council
2. Directorate Office of the Chairman – Director Chairman’s Office
3. Directorate General Services – Director of General Service
4. Legislative, Legal Services Office – Chief Legal Counsel
5. Directorate Specialized Services – Director of Specialized Services

ADDRESS
National Council of Namibia
Private Bag 13371
Windhoek
Namibia

Telephone: 09264-61-202-8000/8111
Fax: 09264-61-226121
Website: www.parliament.gov.na

Current President
Hon. A.K. Kapere
The date of next election of the National Council of Namibia is 2010
 

  
INFORMATION ON THE SENATE OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA Top

There are in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from 2003 –2007, a total of 104 members, 100 males and 4 females all directly elected by the electorates of their different constituencies for duration of 4 years. The chamber is convened by a proclamation issued by the President of the Federation. The constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria provides that after 4 years from the date of the first sitting, the Senate stands dissolved.
The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria cannot be dissolved before the end of its session.
The two Houses have equal legislative competence. Every bill passed by either House has to be passed by the other House in identical form before it can be forwarded to the President for assent.

The Senate is expected to sit for a total of 181 days in a year.

PRINCIPAL OFFICERS
The Presiding Officer of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is called “The President of the Senate”. He is elected at the same time with others basically as a Senator. He is subsequently elected President by his colleagues by a simple majority of votes in the Chambers.

THE FUNCTIONS OF THE PRESIDING OFFICER INCLUDES
1. Chairing the plenary sessions of the Chamber and the committees of the whole Senate.
2. Ruling on Points of Order.
3. Final interpretation of the Chambers rules.
4. Appointment of Chairs and members of the committees in consultation with the committee of selection, which he chairs.
5. He is the Chairman of joint sessions of the two Chambers.
6. He represents the National Assembly at ceremonial occasions.

The constitution of Nigeria makes him number 3 on the National Order of Precedence. Other Principal Officers of Senate are:
1. Deputy Senate President
2. Senate Leader
3. Senate Minority Leader
4. Deputy Senate Leader
5. Deputy Minority Leader
6. Senate Majority Whip
7. Senate Minority Whip
8. Deputy Majority Whip
9. Deputy Minority Whip

Brief Outline of their Functions are as follows:

1. The Deputy Senate President act with full powers in the absence of the President.
2. The Senate Leader leads debates on all Government bills and measures.
3. The Minority Leader seconds all formal motions by Senate Leader.
4. The Deputy Senate Leader acts in the absence of the Leader.
5. The Deputy Minority Leader acts in the absence of the Minority Leader.
6. The Majority Whip organizes his Party for major debates and ensures discipline in the Chamber.
7. The Minority Whip organizes his Parties for major debates and ensures discipline among his members.

COMMITTEE SYSTEM

The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from 2003 – 2007 has a total of 54 committees. The number of members in each committee ranges from 9 – 13.

The committees have the role of studying and researching on bills and motions referred to them and report their findings to the Chamber.

The committees are classified into Special Committees and Standing Committees.
The President of the Senate in consultation with the committee of selection appoints the Chairmen of the Committees.

The Committee Chair presides over the meetings of the Committee. He rules on points of order, interprets the rules, signs and presents committee reports to the Chamber.

POLITICAL PARTIES

There are three Political Parties represented in Senate of the 4th Republic (2003 - 2007). Their names are the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which has majority of members up to 70.4%.
The All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), which is second with 25.0% and the Alliance for Democracy (AD) with 4.6%.

FUNCTIONS OF THE SENATE

The Senate has as an oversight functions the investigation of the implementation of the Annual Budgets by Executive Departments and the Supervision of Nigeria’s Foreign Policies by passing into legality treaties entered into by the country.

The Senate also approves Diplomatic and Ministerial Appointments, Judiciary Appointments and Removal of Judicial Officers at the Federal level. It also approves States and Local Governments creation and amends the constitution when necessary.

The Senate can discipline and control its members in the Chamber.

On immunity, no member of the Senate can be sued or arrested for anything he says on the floor of the Senate.

ADDRESS

The Senate
Federal Republic of Nigeria
National Assembly
Abuja
P.O. Box 141, Abuja, Nigeria

Telephone: 234-9-2340144
234-9-2340058
234-9-2340009
Fax: 234-9-2342159/7

 

  
INFORMATION ON THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF PROVINCES, PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA Top

The National Council of Provinces, Parliament of the Republic of South Africa has a total of 54 members, 36 males and 18 females.

The members of the NCOP are nominated by their political parties in the provincial legislatures and then appointed to the NCOP by the provincial legislatures, which act as the Electoral College.

NCOP members have a term of five years provided they are not removed from office.

A member can be removed before the end of his/her tenure. In terms of section 62(4) of the Constitution, a person ceases to be a permanent delegate if that person:-
• Ceases to be eligible to be a member of the provincial legislature for any reason other than being appointed as a permanent delegate.
• Becomes a member of the Cabinet
• Has lost confidence of the provincial legislature and is recalled by the party that nominated that person
• Ceases to be a member of the party that nominated that person and is recalled by that party
• Is absent from the NCOP without permission in circumstances for which the rules and orders of the Council prescribe loss of office as a permanent delegate.

The Upper and Lower Houses pass legislations except for certain constitutional amendments that:
1 Relate to a matter that affects the Council;
2 Alter provincial boundaries, powers, functions or institutions; or
3 Amend a provision that deals specially with a provincial matter.

• Both Houses have to ratify International Agreements.
• Both Houses conduct oversight over the national executive.
• Committees of the Houses confer with each other if instructed to do so.

PRINCIPAL OFFICERS

The Presiding Officer is addressed as the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces.
Section 64(2) provides that the Chairperson and one of the Deputy Chairpersons are elected from among the permanent delegates for five years unless their terms as delegates expire earlier.
He is nominated at the same time with other members to the provincial legislature from where he is appointed to the NCOP. Section 64(6) provides that the Council may remove the Chairperson or a Deputy Chairperson from office.

A brief outline of the functions of the Chairperson is as follows:
• He has the overall responsibility and accountability for the usage of NCOP Parliamentary time.
• Presides over the House sittings.
• Presides over the NCOP Programme Committee meetings to ensure that the NCOP discharges its constitutional obligations.
• Has the overall responsibility for the scheduling of parliamentary business.
• Accounts for the utilization of resources for the operation of the NCOP.
• Oversees that the NCOP fulfils its oversight role.
• Represents the NCOP internationally (and with the Speaker of the National Assembly, represents Parliament internationally).
• Oversees that Members of the NCOP are empowered to fulfill their roles as public representatives.
• Has the overall responsibility with the Speaker of the National Assembly to oversee the budget of Parliament.
• Has the overall responsibility to oversee the budget of the Secretary to the NCOP and the Office of the Chairperson.
• Holds the overall responsibility to monitor and implement parliamentary policies and procedures.
• Ensures that there is an effective and efficient relationship with the National Assembly, the Executive, the Provinces and Local Government.
• Holds the overall responsibility for overseeing the management and effective functioning of the NCOP.
• Presides over the NCOP Rules Committee.
• Together with the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Chairperson presides over the Joint Rules Committee and the Joint Programme Committee.
• The Chairperson, Speaker of the National Assembly, Deputy Chairperson and Deputy Speaker constitute the Joint Tagging Mechanism.

In general, the Presiding Officers are equivalent to the National Ministers.

The Members in the Chamber elect the Presiding Officer. The Chief Justice of South Africa presides over the election of the Chairperson or designates another judge to do so. The Chairperson then presides over the election of the Deputy Chairpersons.

A Presiding Officer must obtain the simple majority of votes cast by the provinces (i.e. five votes out of a total of nine provinces).

The NCOP may remove the Chairperson from office as per section 64(6) of the Constitution read with rule 14 of the NCOP Rules. In terms of the Council Rules, the House may by resolution moved by the head of a provincial delegation and seconded by the heads of at least three other delegations, move for the removal from office of the Chairperson or a Deputy Chairperson.

However, in terms of the Constitution and the rules, the removal from office as a Presiding Officer is not linked to the removal as a member of the Council. If the reason for the removal falls within the provisions of section 62(4) of the Constitution such a person would cease to be a member of the Council as well.

Designations of other Principal Officers are:

1. Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP (referred to as the Permanent Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP)
2. Rotating Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP
3. Chairperson of Committees
4. Deputy Chairperson of Committees

These other Principal Officers can also be removed before the end of their tenure as stated in rule 14 of the Council rules. The Council may by resolution moved by the head of a provincial delegation and seconded by the heads of at least three other delegations, remove from office any other Principal Officers. The reason may vary from “loss of confidence” in the Principal Officer, including those reasons outlined in section 62(4) of the Constitution.

FUNCTIONS OF OTHER PRINCIPAL OFFICERS

The permanent Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP assists the Chairperson in discharging his/her functions.

Chairperson of Committees:-

 Ensuring the compilation of Programmes by select Committees that are in compliance with their Strategic Plans.
 Facilitating the drafting of budgets by Select Committees.
 Providing reports to the Programme Committee meeting regarding committee activities in respect of the processing of legislation.
 Monitoring of support provided by the Committee Section.
 Ensuring/Tracking the processing of legislation by Committees.
 Coordinating of Select Committees’ Strategic and Business Plans and Programming of Select Committees’ activities.
 Convening and chairing the Forum of Chairpersons of Committees and Caucus Chairpersons quarterly.
 Convening and chairing regular meetings of the Chairpersons of Committees.

Deputy Chairperson of Committees

 Co-coordinating of oversight activities of Select Committees.
 Ensuring the compilation of the committee reports on oversight activities.
 Ensuring that all committees are briefed on the Budget Votes by government departments and providing progress reports on such briefings to the Programme Committee.
 Monitoring of compliance by the Executive with respect to recommendations set out in reports of Select Committees through the Office of the Chairperson of the NCOP.
 Facilitating of implementation of recommendations of the oversight subcommittee by championing implementation by the Task Team on Oversight by overseeing work by officials.
 Facilitating oversight and monitoring the reports on the workings of the Public Education Unit. This is informed by the political imperative that Parliament should be accessible to the people as well as the constitutional imperative of facilitation of public participation.

 Addressing members’ queries regarding Members’ Interests by liaising and ensuring that policies in this regard are implemented.
 Acquaint it with policies regarding labour relations and be the receptacle of such matters in order to advise the Office of the Chairperson and enable it to intervene appropriately where necessary.
 To facilitate installation of systems to ensure that the institution is fully Information Technology compliant and technologically ready to deal with its functions.
 To attend and provide inputs to the Forum of Chairpersons of Committees and Caucus Chairpersons which meets quarterly to exchange information, perspectives and discuss, where necessary, issues relating to support to members or members’ interests.
 Ensure finalization of existing draft policies on Leave for Members, Artworks Management, Exhibitions, and Library. Once Policy is adopted, monitor and report on implementation progress or otherwise.
 Monitor and report on Household Services work especially in relation to Parliament as well as maintenance and security of its assets.

The Chairperson of Committees and the Deputy Chairperson of Committees are appointed by resolution of the House.

COMMITTEE SYSTEM

The NCOP does make use of a committee system. Committees are the vehicles for the NCOP and the National Assembly to fulfill their roles

The current parliamentary system makes provision for 10 Committees in the National Council of Provinces and 8 Joint Committees.

The number of members in each committee varies depending on the nature of the committees, e.g. a cluster of a Select Committee consists of 13 to 16 members, and subcommittees consist of 5 members except the Programme committee which consist of 19 members. Ad hoc committees consist of 9 members

The Presiding officer chairs the Rules committee and the Programmes committee.

The Role of the Committee in the Legislative Process
In terms of Section 42(2) of the Constitution, the National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) participate in the legislative process in the manner set out in the Constitution. In terms of sections 55 and 68 of the Constitution, in exercising its legislative power, the National Assembly and National Council of Provinces may consider, pass, amend or reject any legislation before the Assembly or the Council. Sections 57 and 70 of the Constitution further provides that the rules of the Assembly and the Council must provide for the establishment, composition, powers, functions, procedures and duration of its committees. In accordance with this constitutional mandate, the committees of the Assembly and the Council consider, pass, amend and reject legislation. Rule 149 of the Council rules further provides that the function of the committee on members’ legislative proposals is to consider and make recommendations to the Council on all legislative proposals made by the Council members who intend introducing Bills in the Council.

There are four categories of committees in the NCOP, that is:
1. Select Committees:
Each committee is a combination of a number of related portfolios as a number of affairs of Government may be grouped together in any single select committee (clustering).

2. Domestic or House Committees: Consists of the Rules Committee, Programme Committee and the Committee of Chairpersons.
3. Select Committee on Members’ Legislative Proposals: Considers and makes recommendations to the NCOP on legislative proposals referred to it.
4. Ad Hoc Committees: These committees may only be established to perform a specific task. The NCOP’s resolution must include timeframes for the completion of a task. Once it has completed the task, such an ad hoc committee ceases to exist.
5. Joint Committees: Joint Committees consist of members of both Houses. Their functions are governed by the Joint Rules. .

Chairpersons of committees are expected to possess certain qualities that would enable them to effectively conduct meetings of the committee, e.g. knowledge of the rules of Parliament, ability to conduct a meeting in an impartial manner etc.

Chairpersons of Select Committees are elected among members of the committee, whereas those of subcommittees are appointed by the Rules Committee, except those committees for which the rules prove otherwise, e.g. the Programming Committee, Rules Committee and the Joint Rules Committee, which are chaired by the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces.

The tenure of a committee is linked to the tenure of the National Council of Provinces, that is, five years.

The duties of a Committee Chairperson include:
• Convening and chairing meetings of the committee.
• Overseeing the compilation of the minutes and reports of the committee.
• Overseeing the budget of the committee.
• Compiling the business plan of the committee, including the strategic plan.
• Compiling the Programme of the committee in liaison with the Chairperson of Committees.

POLITICAL PARTIES

There are eight (8) Political Parties in the Chamber. Their names and percentages of representation are shown as follows:

1. African National Congress (ANC) = 71%
2. Democratic Alliance (DA) = 14%
3. Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) = 4%
4. New National Party (NNP) = 3%
5. Independent Democrats (ID) = 2%
6. United Democratic Movement (UDM) = 2%
7. United Christian Democratic Party (UCDP) = 2%
8. Freedom Front Plus (FF+) = 2%

FUNCTIONS OF THE CHAMBER

The NCOP is tasked with an oversight function in terms of the Constitution.
It ensures that the executive is accountable in the process of exercising the mandate of the electorate. In terms of section 62 of the Constitution, the National Council of Provinces may require a Cabinet Member, a Deputy Minister or an official in the national executive or a provincial executive to attend a meeting of the Council or a Committee of the Council.

The NCOP is also obliged in terms of section 231 of the Constitution to ratify International Agreements entered into by the executive although Foreign Affairs is a national competence.

Other Functions of the Chamber:
The constitutional mandate of the National Council of Provinces is to:
• Represent the provinces to ensure that provincial interests are taken into account in the national sphere of government.
• Participate in the national legislative process.
• Provide a national forum for public consideration of issues affecting the provinces.
• Hold the Executive to account in terms of Section 92.

The chamber has a standing rule of business called the Rules of the National Council of Provinces. The chamber can also amend or suspend its rules.

It also has the power to discipline its members.

The Council has no hand in the recruitment of staff. The Parliament of South Africa has a Human Resources Department, which deals with the recruitment, discipline and training of staff.
The NCOP utilizes the Human Resources Department when it requires its services regarding recruitment etc. The Secretary to Parliament is also requested for approval to recruit and appoint staff.

It is however involved when political staff are recruited and appointed.
The chamber controls its own budget; however, such control is regulated in terms of the Public Finance Management Act.

On an administrative level also, the Secretary to Parliament is the Accounting Officer responsible for the control of funds of Parliament, it is then delegated to the Secretaries of both Houses from a specific House.


STRUCTURE OF THE CHAMBER

Office of the Chairperson = Chairperson of the NCOP (Political
Head of the Institution)

Secretary to the NCOP = Divisional Head (Head of the
Administration)

Provincial and Municipal Liaison Section = Section Manager

Procedural Services Section = Section Manager

Administration Unit = Unit Manager

ADDRESS

Hon. Mr. M. J. Mahlangu, MP
The Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces
Ground Floor
Old Assembly Wing
Office S11
P.O. Box 15
Cape Town
8000

Advocate L.L. Matyolo
The Secretary to the NCOP
First Floor
Old Assembly Wing
Office S25
P.O. Box 15
Cape Town
8000

Telephone number(s): 27 21 403 2118/2127
Fax number: 27 21 403 2660
Email address: lmatyolo@parliament.gov.za
http://www.parliament.gov.za. Click on the NCOP link.

Current Presiding Officer
Hon. Mr. M.J. Mahlangu, MP

Tenure: 5 years
The date for the next election into the Council is 2009
 		  
INFORMATION ON THE SHOORA COUNCIL OF THE REPUBLIC OF YEMEN Top
There are a total of 111 members in the Shoora Council of the Republic of Yemen made up of 109 males and 2 females. All appointed by the President of the Republic of Yemen.
There is no fixed tenure of mandate for members. A member can be removed before the end of the tenure by the President of the country for political reasons. Chamber is convened periodically by a call from the Chairman of the Council. It can only be dissolved by a decree from the President of the Country.
On the relationship with the lower chamber, there are constitutional mandates that both Councils share. The sitting days of the Council is not limited as long as there are issues to be deliberated upon. The law also states that the Council can hold sessions in a year from January to July then September to December.

PRINCIPAL OFFICERS

The Presiding Officer of the Council is known as the Speaker. His tenure is the same as the tenure of the Council. Members of the Council elect him with an absolute majority of votes. The President of the country can also remove him before the end of his tenure or by the Council if he fails to perform properly. In the event of his removal as the Presiding Officer of the Council, he still retains his seat as a member of the Council unless he gets a new appointment.

OTHER PRINCIPAL OFFICERS OF THE COUNCIL

There are three other Principal Officers of the namely: Two Deputy Speakers whose official ranks are Deputy Premiers, elected from the Council. The third is the Secretary General of the Council whose official ranking is that of a Minister and is appointed by the President. Other Principal Officers can also be removed either by the Council or by the President of the Republic for the reason of lack of performance or political decisions.

The Deputies as usual, assist the Speaker in the performance of his duties. The Secretary General oversees the Administrative activities of the Council under the supervision of the Speaker and his Deputies.

BRIEF OUTLINE OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE SPEAKER OF THE COUNCIL

He presides over the council’s meetings, clarifies issues and subjects of discussions. Concludes the final results of the council’s discussions and puts them to vote. He also signs agreements and contracts relating to the Shoora Council, refers issues to the committees, speaks on behalf of the Council and executes any mandate given to him by the Council.

COMMITTEE SYSTEM

The Council runs committee system and has about 13 committees whose number of members’ stretches between 7 and 11. The Speaker of the Council does not belong to any committee. Each committee’s role in the legislative process is enshrined in the Rule of Procedures of the Council. The Council can also assign responsibilities to the committees from time to time. Each committee is structured to have a Chairperson, Deputy and a Rapporteur. The Chairs of the committees are usually elected from amongst the most qualified and experienced members by the members of the committees themselves. Their tenure is the same with the life of the committees.

The Chairs of the committees have the following as duties:

1. Presiding over the committee meetings
2. Share the activities of the committees.
3. Plans and co-ordinates relations between the committees and the chamber.
4. Inform the committees of any views or ideas put forward by the Council.
5. Approve the minutes of meetings.

POLITICAL PARTIES

There are six Political Parties equally represented in the Chamber as its in the Parliament.
The Parties are:
1. General People’s Conference
2. Yemen Reform Party
3. Yemen Socialist Party
4. Yemen Unionist Nasirite Party
5. National Baath Party
6. Arab Baath Party

It is pertinent to note here that there are Parties that are not represented in the Parliament yet but they have seats in the Shoora Council.

FUNCTIONS OF THE CHAMBER

The Council has no direct oversight functions over the Government but can invite the Prime Minister, his Deputies and the Ministers to attend the sessions as observers.
However, the Council has a constitutional mandate to advice the President on Foreign Policies as well as socio-economic and military issues. Besides, the Council shares with the Parliament, the ratification of accords and treaties.
In addition, the Council can advice on Public strategies relating to economic development plans, democratic process and social plans.
The President of the Republic can also refer issues to the Council for analysis. The Council shares with the parliament the decision on nominating the candidates for the Presidential elections. It also has the mandate to look after the Press, Civil Society Organisations and Local governance.
The Council can study and analyse the reports of the Central Accounts and Auditing Authority. The Council has two standing rules for its business, the Rule of Procedures and the Financial and Bonus Rules.
The constitution also specifies the relationship between the chamber and other arms of Government. There is also the Rules of Procedures of the Shoora Council and the Parliament and other laws that govern the relationship.
The Council can also amend or suspend its rules by a decree from the President of the Republic. Members of the Council are controlled within the legal framework under which the Council operates.
On immunity, a member cannot be questioned for the information he has or he knows. He also cannot be held accountable for his own opinion. The Council is also autonomous in the recruitment of staff but with certain rules. The political leadership is also involved in staff matters within its mandate.
The Council usually suggests its budget but the final approval is shared with the Ministry of Finance.
The structure of the Council is such that gives the General Secretariat the duty of overseeing the following General Departments:

1. General Directorate for Committees.
2. General Directorate for Council’s Sessions
3. General Directorate for Finance
4. General Directorate for Personnel
5. Directorate for Legal Affairs
6. Secretary General’s Office

The Speaker’s Office is in charge of:

1. Speaker’s Office Director
2. Technical Office
3. Deputy Director’s Office
4. Speaker’s Secretariat
5. Public Relations and Protocol Department

ADDRESS

The Shoora Council
P.O. Box 23065
Telephones: 00967-1-227815/4
Fax: 00967-1-560390
Email: shoora@y.net.ye
Website: www.shoora.gov.ye

Current Speaker

His Excellency, Abdul Aziz Abdul Ghani
 
THE HOUSE OF DIGNITARIES OF THE HASHEMITE KINGDOM OF JORDAN Top

There are 55 members of the House of Dignitaries of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, made up of 48 males and 7 females, all appointed by His Majesty, the King of Jordan for a 4 year tenure.
 

His Majesty, the King can remove a member before the end of the tenure.
The Council is convened by a call from the King to sit when the need arises.
His Majesty The King can also dissolve the Council before the end of the tenure through a royal decree.
Bills originate from the Lower House before they go to the Council.

The Council sits in ordinary session for a period of four months. The King can however, call for other sessions when the need arises.

PRINCIPAL OFFICERS OF THE COUNCIL
The chairman is the President appointed by the King for a period of two years, which is extendable.

THE FUNCTIONS OF THE COUNCIL’S PRESIDENT

1. He presides over the Council’s meetings.
2. He chairs the Supreme Council for the interpretation of the constitution.
3. He chairs the joint meeting of both chambers.

-The President of the Council comes after the Prime Minister in the country’s National Order of Precedence.

-His Majesty, the King can remove him before the end of his tenure.

The Council elects members of Supreme council for the interpretation of the constitution. They are as follows:
1-Three members of the house of dignitaries for the membership of the Supreme council for the interpretation of the constitution.
2. First Deputy President
3. Second Deputy President
4. Two Assistants to the President

 They  loose their membership if they resign, or are appointed into new positions. Their functions are as follows:

1. Representing the Council at official engagements when it is on recess.
2. Supporting the President in his duties.
3. Taking charge of the Council in the absence of the President.

COMMITTEE SYSTEM
There are nine committees elected by the Council each having a maximum of 15 members and members of interim committees which are set up when the need arises. The committees have as roles, to study the Draft Bills referred to them from  the president of the Council and to discuss policies and decisions relevant to their different mandates. Each committee elects its chairman.

Members of Committees are elected for 2-year tenure. The Chairs preside over the committee meetings and report the findings on each matter to the chamber.

FUNCTIONS OF THE CHAMBER
1- Legislation :

 

The council has as a role to study and discuss the Draft Bills referred to it from the House of the Representatives and takes appropriate decision.

 

2- Oversight :

 -        The council has oversight functions with regards to the function of executive power.

-         The Jordanian constitution is specific on the relationship between the council and the other arms of the government.

-         The council functions with its rules of procedures and it can amend the rules of procedures in accordance with the functions of the council , and the provisions contained in the rules of procedures permit the council to discipline erring members.

Members of the council can not be sued , questioned , detained or jailed without the approval of the council unless caught in the act and in this case the council shall be informed immediately .


The chamber is autonomous in the recruitment of staff.

ADDRESS

The House of Dignitaries
P.O. Box 72
Postal code 111.1
Telephone: 0096265664121
Fax: 0096265621782

CURRENT PRESIDENT
H.E Taher Al-Mesri

 

 

  
THE SHOORA COUNCIL OF THE STATE OF QATAR Top
The Council has 35 members all appointed by His Majesty, Sheikh Hamad Bin Al Thany, the Emir of Qatar and mandates take effect from the date of appointment till the end of the Council’s tenure in accordance with the rules of procedures.

A member of the Council can be removed before the end of the mandate by a decree from His Majesty, the Emir as a result of his inefficiency. The Council is convened by a proclamation by His Majesty, the Amir either for an annual session or an emergency session and can also be dissolved in the same manner even before the end of mandate. The Amir can also dissolve the Council in the interest of the Public. The Council is expected to sit at least for 8 months in a year.

The legislature in the State of Qatar is unicameral.

PRINCIPAL OFFICERS

The President is the Presiding Officer of the Council. The current President elected by secret ballot in the Council with a simple majority has been in charge of the Council since 1995.
The Council also elects the Deputy President and the Controller.

Brief outlines of the President’s Functions are as follows:

1. He oversees the general Administration of the Council.
2. He presides over the sessions and secures order.
3. He supervises the budget and final accounts.
4. He represents the Council in different occasions.

There has not been any President of the Council removed from office before the end of his tenure.

Other Principal Officers of the Shoora Council of the State of Qatar include:

1. The Deputy President helps the President in his duties and acts for him in his absence.
2. The Controller

Other Functions of Principal Officers include:

1. The supervision of the minutes writing.
2. Preparation of the Council’s budgets and final accounts.
3. Nomination of delegates to international conferences.
4. Follow up committees’ activities and the administration of the Council.

COMMITTEE SYSTEM

There are 5 committees in the Shoora Council of the State of Qatar formed in consideration of their relevance to the needs of the Council as contained in the rules of procedure. Each committee must have at least five members.

A committee must have a Rapporteur and Secretariat. The tenure of the committees is the same as the tenure of each session. A committee chair participates in the discussions, maintains order in his committee and approves the committees’ findings for submission to the Council.

There are no Political Parties represented in the Council.

The rules of procedure as contained in the law number 6 of 1979 is the chamber’s standing rule for legislative business.

The internal rules of procedure can be amended by a two-third majority and a law issued to endorse the amendments.

Members cannot be questioned for their opinions on the floor of the Council.

The Secretary General and other Workers are recommended by the President of the Council with the approval of the chamber.

ADDRESS

P.O. Box 2034
Doha – Qatar
Telephone: 974413222
Fax: 974425526
Email: fahd@shura.gv.qa

CURRENT PRESIDENT

H.E. Mohammed Bin Mubark Al Khalify
 		  
THE SHOORA COUNCIL OF EGYPT Top

The Council has a total of 264 members made up of 246 males and females. 176 of the number are elected through direct electrons by all constituents listed in the Registration Roster while 88 are appointed by the President of the country. The members’ mandate duration is 6 years. A member looses his membership of the Council if he resigns or his election nullified. A member also looses his mandate if he is given a new position in Government.

The Council is convened by a call from the President for the inauguration of the Council and then the Speaker of the Council takes over.

Upon a decree by the President, the Council can be dissolved. In addition, the decree must also include a call for new elections. This could be before the end of its session or at the end of the session as stipulated in the constitution.

The Shoora Council of Egypt enjoys mutual cooperation with the Lower Chamber. It is stipulated that the Council should sit for at least seven months in a year.

PRINCIPAL OFFICERS

The Speaker is the Presiding Officer of the Council. He is elected directly by members of the Council through simple majority of the number of votes cast for a three-year tenure. He is the third person in Egypt’s National Order of Precedence. He can be removed before the end of the tenure if he gets a new post or found to be ineffective. He can still retain his seat in the event of the later.

FUNCTIONS OF THE PRESIDING OFFICER

1. He represents the Council at official functions, speaks on its behalf.
2. He works to preserve the dignity and security of the members and oversees the Council’s activities.
3. He chairs the meetings of the Council and announces decisions taken.
4. He supervises the work of the committees and discusses urgent issues with them.

OTHER PRINCIPAL OFFICERS OF THE SHOORA COUNCIL OF EGYPT ARE:

1. Two Deputies of the Speaker
2. The Secretary General
3. Assistant Secretary General

The two Deputies of the Speaker cannot be removed but the others can be removed by the Speaker if it is in the interest of the public as they are also appointed by him after they have been recommended by the Council’s office and the Shoora Council should be informed.

THE FUNCTIONS OF OTHER PRINCIPAL OFFICERS ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. The Deputies can be assigned duties or be delegated by the Speaker to either preside over the meeting of the Council or represent him at functions.
2. They also take charge of the Council in the absence of the Speaker.
3. The Speaker and his Deputies form the Council office, which supervise the Council’s activities and prepare the Council’s agenda.
4. They take care of the Parliamentary delegations.

COMMITTEE SYSTEM

There are ten committees in the Shoora Council of Egypt with a membership of between 15 and 40. The Speaker of the Council does not belong to any committee but can attend the meetings of any of his choice and even presides over the meeting.

The committees discuss Draft Bills and other issues that may be referred and other issues that may be referred to it prior to the preliminary sittings.

There is a chairperson in each committee, two Deputies and a Secretary.

The members of the Council usually choose the committees to work with and the Council then endorses their choices. These members then go ahead to elect their chairs, for a period of 3 years. Committees are formed every 3 years that is twice within the tenure of the Council.
Chairmen convene the committee meetings, set agenda and choose a rapporteur to present the committee report to the Council.

POLITICAL PARTIES

There are 7 parties represented in the Council. They are:

1. The National Democratic Party - 229 members
2. Liberal Socialist - 1 member
3. National Unionist Congregate 2 members
4. New Wafed 1 member
5. Social Solidarity 1 member
6. Egyptian Green 1 member
7. Democratic Generation 1 member

FUNCTIONS OF THE CHAMBER

There is no oversight function over the other arms of Government, but the Council can discuss the political and foreign issues as well as internal policies of Government and report its findings and suggestions to the President of the Republic.

OTHER FUNCTIONS INCLUDE:

1. Involvement in the amendment of the constitution.
2. Deliberation on Draft Bills from members and from the President on peace accords, alliances, border matters and on issues that affect the sovereignty of the country.
3. The Council discusses the country’s plan for socio economic development.
4. It can also ask questions on Government policies.

There are standing rules that govern the Council’s business. The constitution and the Council’s law number 120 of 1980 define the relationship between the Council, lower chamber and the other arms of Government. It also has the power to suspend or amend its rules. The chamber can control and discipline erring members. The committee on values takes care of the behaviour of members vis-ŕ-vis the Egyptian Society values and can impose or recommend punishments.

The criminal code cannot be applied to the members unless they are caught in action. The Council is autonomous in the recruitment of staff. It also approves its budget and controls it.

ADDRESS

Shoora Council of Egypt
Qaser Al Aini Street
Cairo
Telephone: 002127955492
Fax: 002127949101
Email: saicig@idsc.net.eg
Website: www.shura.gov.eg

CURRENT PRESIDING OFFICER
Safwat Al Sharif
Tenure: 3 years
Next election: 2007
 		  
THE COUNCIL OF ADVISORS OF THE KINGDOM OF MOROCCO Top

There are 279 (273 males and 3 females) members in the Council of Advisors of the Kingdom of Morocco all elected for a duration of 9 years. One third of the members are elected into the Council every year.

The process of entry into the chamber is by election, through local authorities and election by members of Trade Union Chambers. Members of the Council are elected through an Electoral College, which is constituted by the elected members of local authority and members of Trade Union Chambers. A member of the Council can loose his membership of the Council before the end of his tenure for legal reasons like election irregularities in which case he has to leave the chamber for the execution of justice.

The Council has two sessions in a year. The first session starts in October while the second starts in April. Each of these sessions lasts for 3 months. Additional sessions may be held on a request from the Government and two third majority support of members of the Council.

The King of Morocco has the power to dissolve the Council within the tenure or at the expiration of the tenure, in accordance with the provisions of chapter 27 of the constitution.

The Council of Advisors and the Lower Chamber compliment each other within constitutional framework.

PRINCIPAL OFFICERS
The President of the Council presides over the activities of the Chamber. He is elected by an absolute majority in the first round, then a simple majority in the second round for a 3-year tenure.

THE PRESIDENT HAS AS FUNCTIONS:
1. To direct the Council administratively and financially.
2. To represent the Council at local and international meetings.
3. To take charge of the activities of the Council and delegate powers to others when necessary.

He is the third in rank in the Moroccan National Order of Precedence.

OTHER PRINCIPAL OFFICERS WHO ARE ALSO ELECTED INCLUDE:
1. Five Deputy Presidents
2. Three Secretaries General
3. Three Accountants

They deputize for the President in his absence and help in the General administration of the Council. They also represent the Council at functions.

COMMITTEE SYSTEM
There are 6 committees in the Council, each made up of 45 members. The Presiding Officer is a member of one of the committees.
Bills are sent to the committees from the chamber for study and analysis and the committees can recommend changes where necessary. The committees also hold special meetings to discuss very important issues.

The members of the committees elect the Chairmen for a period of 3 years. They preside over committee meetings, prepare reports and present them at the plenary sessions.

POLITICAL PARTIES
There are 11 Political Parties represented in the Chamber. They are by name:

1. National Congress of Liberals
2. National Peoples’ Movement
3. National Movement
4. Independence Party
5. Socialist Union
6. Constitutional Union
7. Democratic Union
8. Democratic Socialist Movement
9. National Democratic Party
10. The Ahed Party
11. Socialist Party
These Parties have different representations ranging from 1 to 50 representatives.

FUNCTIONS OF THE CHAMBER
The Council of Advisors of Morocco has no direct oversight functions on the other Arms of Government but it has the mandate to legislative on and supervises the Government’s performances. It presents initiatives within the powers of the Parliament, through mutual visits and participation in international forums.

The chamber has standing rules for the conduct of its business and can control or discipline erring members.
Members cannot be arrested and cannot be sued based on the civil or criminal law unless the immunity is lifted.

The Council is autonomous in the recruitment of staff and it controls its own budget. A new organizational chart is being prepared.

ADDRESS

Mohammed the 5th Street
Rabat – Kingdom of Morocco
Tel: 037-204703, 037-761116
Fax: 037-204703, 037-762474

CURRENT PRESIDENT

H.E. Mustafa Okasha

Tenure: 3 extendable years

Next election: September 2006

 		  
THE PEOPLES’ (OUMA) COUNCIL OF THE PEOPLES’ DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF ALGERIA Top

The Ouma Council is made up of 144 members. Out of this number, 96 members are elected while 48 members are appointed. The Council has 140 Males and 4 Females members; all drawn from respectable members of the society and some are former high-ranking Government officials.

Two third of the members are elected indirectly through local Councils and secret balloting while one third are appointed by the President of the Republic in accordance with the provisions of the constitution. The members have mandate duration of six years. The Council can remove a member before the end of the tenure if he is found guilty of a case against him after due investigation. According to the provisions of the constitution, the chamber cannot be dissolved.

When a bill is introduced, deliberated upon and passed by the Peoples National Council (Lower House). It is then sent to the Council for analysis. The Peoples Council sits in two sessions every year, each lasting no longer than five months, but can also hold emergency sessions upon a call by the President or by a two third majority request.

PRINCIPAL OFFICERS

The Presiding Officer of the Council is the President. He is elected directly by members of the Council by absolute majority of votes for and an extendable tenure of three years. He can also be removed by the Council before the end of his tenure if found to be ineffective. He can retain his seat as a member when removed.

THE PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL IS RESPONSIBLE FOR:

1. General Administration of the Council and securing order.
2. He presides over the meetings and represents the Council internally and internationally.
3. He takes charge of joint sessions of the upper and lower chambers.
4. He acts as the President of the Republic when there is vacancy.

He is the number 2 man in the Republic’s order of precedence that is after the President of the country.
Other Principal Officers of the Council are at the five Deputies to the President. They are elected by Council for one year which is extendable and can also be removed by the same procedures if found wanting.

AMONG THE DUTIES OF THESE OFFICERS ARE:
1. Distribution of Draft Bills on timely basis.
2. Securing of order at Plenary Sessions.
3. Coordination of meeting schedules with the Government.
4. Take decisions with the President on systems of balloting in the Council on the application of the rules of procedures.
5. Study the Council’s budget.
6. Preside over the meetings when the President is absent.

COMMITTEE SYSTEM
The Peoples’ Council of Algeria has 9 committees. The committees on Legal matters and Administration, Human Rights, Economy and Finance have between 15 to 19 members each. Other committees’ membership ranges from 10 to 15.

The Presiding Officer does not belong to any committee but he and his Deputies can participate in the meetings of any committee without votes.

A committee has the duty to study and analyze the Draft Bills and any other matter and give reports to the chamber for final discussion and assent. Each committee has an office and is composed of the Chairman, Deputy and Rapporteur. The committees are formed based on the mandates given to the Council by the constitution and proportional political party representation is taken into account when forming the committees. The Chairmen of the committees should preferable have a good knowledge of the functions of the committee he is to chair. The Parliamentary groups usually agree on the Chairmen or members of the committees can directly elect them for a period of one year, which can also be extended.

A committee Chairman supervises the committee’s activities for example, setting of the agenda of meetings, chairing committee meetings, choosing a rapporteur.

POLITICAL PARTIES
There are five Political Parties represented but only those that have up to ten members in the chamber can form a Parliamentary group.

The Parties and their representation percentages are as follows:
1. National Democratic Congregate 38%
2. National Liberation Front 23%
3. Peaceful Society Movement 7%
4. National Reform Movement 1%
5. Socialist Activist Movement 1%

The first three Parties formed the Parliamentary group.

FUNCTIONS OF THE CHAMBER
The Council has oversight functions on the other organs of Government through the power it has to approve Government programmes and the Scrutinization of Government budget. The Council can also question and investigate Government activities. Foreign Policy is the responsibility of the President of the Republic, but the Council can advise and supervise the performance of the Government in this regard. The Council also supports the Government through Parliamentary diplomacy with the international community. The Council can advise on Principal Political matters like, the dissolution of the first chamber, state of emergency and war matters. It also contributes to the consolidation of stability of the entire system.

The chamber has standing rules for the conduct of its business. The constitution of the country, the basic laws of both chambers show the mandate of the chamber and the relationship between it and the Lower House and Government.

The rules of the Council can be amended upon a proposal by the President of the Council or by at least 30 members of the Council submitted at the Council’s office.
The chamber can control and discipline its members through the implementation of the internal rules.

The law states in article 109 that a member cannot be sued or be questioned for his or her opinion or for the execution of his official duties.

The People’s Council of Algeria is autonomous in staff recruitment. It approves its budget and asks the Government to include it in the Government budget.

Outline of the Structure of the Council are as follows:
1. The General Secretariat
2. The General Directorate of Legislative Affairs
3. General Directorate of Administration and Finance
4. General Directorate of Technical and Mutual Cooperation

There are also other sub Directorates.

ADDRESS

Al Ouma Council (Peoples’ Council)
Qaser Zaigoot Yousuf
Algiers
P.O. Box 66
Zip code 16000
Telephone: 021735900
Fax: 021746024
Email: majliselouma@majliselouma.d3
Website: www.majliselouma.d3

CURRENT PRESIDING OFFICER

H.E. Abdul Kader Bin Saleh

Tenure: 3 years

Date of Next Election: 2007
 		  
THE SHOORA COUNCIL OF SAUDI ARABIA Top

The Shoora Council of Saudi Arabia has a total of 150 members (all male) appointed by the King of Saudi Arabia for duration of 4 years. Members of this Council can also be removed by the King for lack of performance or if a member asks for resignation. The chamber can also be entirely dissolved by a Royal decree from the King. The Council sits weekly on a call by the Speaker of the Council. The Shoora Council of is the only Council in Saudi Arabia.

PRINCIPAL OFFICERS
The Presiding Officer of the Council is the President. The King appoints him for a period of 4 years. The King can also remove him and if this happens, he looses also his seat in the chamber.

AMONG HIS FUNCTIONS ARE:
1. Overseeing of all the Council’s activities.
2. Representing the Council in relation to other organizations.
3. Presides over the meetings and approves issues to be discussed and bring them forward for voting.
4. He also presides over the meeting of the general committee.

OTHER PRINCIPAL OFFICERS OF THE COUNCIL INCLUDE:

1. The Deputy President
2. General Secretary of the Council

The other Principal Officers are also appointed by the King and can be removed by him.

A brief outline of the functions of other Principal Officers is as follows:
1. The Deputy President assists the President in his absence.
2. The Secretary General takes minutes of the meetings of the Council, inform the members of the time and agenda of meetings and performs other mandate given to him by the Speaker.

COMMITTEE SYSTEM
There are 12 committees in existence at the Shoora Council of Saudi Arabia, each having a membership of between 12 and 14. The President of the Council also belongs to a committee. The Committees have as roles, to study issues referred to it from the Council or from the President.
The committees have Chairmen who are appointed by the Council. Each Chairman should have relevant background as regards the duties of the committee he is to chair. The Chairmen have one-year tenure.

The Chair of a Committee has the following duties:
1. He calls for meetings.
2. Presides over the meetings of the committee.
3. Speaks for the committee in the preliminary meeting.


There are no Political Parties represented in the Council.

FUNCTIONS OF THE CHAMBER

The Council has some oversight functions with regard to the other arms of Government. It discusses the Public Policies of the Government that are referred to it by the Cabinet. The Council also studies and analyses the accords and agreements to be entered into with foreign organs and comments on them.

OTHER FUNCTIONS ARE:

1. The Council discusses and approves the socio economic plan for development.
2. Studies and analyses laws, bi-laws and international accords and suggest whether what could be done.
3. Explains and illustrates laws and bi-laws.
4. Studies and analyses the annual reports that are submitted from the different ministries of Government.

ADDRESS

Yamama Palace
Riyadh
P.O. Box 11212
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Telephone: 0096614821666
Fax: 0096612120162
Email: webmaster@shura.gov.sa
Website: www.shura.gov.sa

CURRENT PRESIDENT

Dr Saleh Bin Abdulla Bin Hamid

Tenure: Started from 24/11/1422 Hijri to date

Next election: 3/3/1430 Hijri
 		  
THE SHOORA COUNCIL OF THE KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN Top

There are 40 members in the Shoora Council of the Kingdom of Bahrain made up of 34 males and 6 females, all appointed by the King for tenure of 4 years, which can be extended but the Council is never dissolved.

The Speaker is appointed by the King and can also be removed by the King before the expiration of his tenure. His removal could be for the reason of another appointment violation of rules and regulations etc. The chamber meets weekly by a call from the Speaker.

The Kingdom of Bahrain runs a bi-cameral legislative system. The two chambers must approve any proposed bill before it is passed. Where there is a disagreement, they constitute the National Council presided over by the Speaker of the Shoora Council to vote on the issue of dispute. The Council must sit for at least seven months in a year.

PRINCIPAL OFFICERS
The Presiding Officer is the Speaker of the Council. He is appointed at the same time with others for a period of 4 years. He precedes the Prime Minister and the Speaker of the parliament.

SOME OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE SPEAKER CAN BE STATED AS:
1. Representing the Council and overseeing the activities of General Secretariat.
2. Presides over the sessions of the Council.
3. He assigns matters to different committees and Chairs the Committees when it is urgent.

As stated earlier the Presiding Officer, Principal Officers and the members can be removed before the expiration of their tenure for reasons best known to the King.

A removed Speaker or other Principal Officer may retain their seats in the Council as members depending on the King’s decision.

OTHER PRINCIPAL OFFICERS ELECTED BY THE COUNCIL ARE:
1. The First Deputy Speaker
2. The Second Deputy Speaker
3. The Chair of Legal and Legislations Committee
4. The Chair of Finance and Economic Committee

THE PRINCIPAL OFFICERS WHO CONSTITUTE THE COUNCIL OFFICE:
1. Approve the Council’s Agenda.
2. Review the comments of members on the minutes of meetings.
3. Discuss the Council’s Budget and the final account.
4. Follow up the committees’ activities and coordinate them.
5. Analyze the reports of delegates of special duties before reporting to the Council.
6. Administers the Council when the members are on recess.

COMMITTEE SYSTEM

There are five committees in the Council. The Finance and Economy, Legal and Legislative Committees have 8 members each while the others have seven members. Other Committees may be formed as the need arise.

The Presiding Officer of the Council does not belong to any Committee. Each Committee has a Chairman, Deputy Chairman and a Secretary from the staff. The Chairmen and Deputies are elected by the Committee members for a renewable one tenure. The Committees have as function to study the Draft Bills and any other Proposal referred to it from the Council and report back to the Council for discussion.

The Committee chairman sets the Agenda of the meetings, convenes the meetings, endorses the minutes of meetings, reports to the Speaker and represents his Committee when necessary.

There are no Political Parties represented in the Council but Political Associations exist whose numbers are not known.

The Council has no oversight function on the other arms of Government but is involved in the Foreign Policy Process of the Country by legislating on Draft Bills relating to Agreements and Accords.

THE COUNCIL ALSO PERFORMS OTHER IMPORTANT DUTIES LIKE:

1. Deliberating on Draft laws in conjunction with the lower House before the King could issue them.
2. Members of the Council propose Bills which when passed, could affect the decisions of Government.
3. The Council also oversees the Cabinet and can question the Ministers.

The Council’s business is covered by the decree no 55 of the year 2002.

The Relationships between the chamber and other arms of Government are contained in many mandates and procedures in the Parliament’s laws and constitution, and in the Council’s rules of procedure.

The rules of procedure of the Council were decreed by law and it can be amended by a proposal by the Council members which will then be deliberated upon and perhaps passed.

Members of the Council cannot be questioned or arrested for an opinion expressed in the chamber or its committees. If any member has to face the law, it must be with the approval of the Speaker of the Council.

The Shoora Council of Bahrain is autonomous in the recruitment of staff. The Council is also in control of its budget. It agrees with the Government on its budget and funds are released.


ADDRESS

P.O Box 10105 Manawah
Kingdom of Bahrain
Telephone: 0097317716500
Fax: 0097317715715

Website: www.shura.com.bh

CURRENT SPEAKER
Dr. Faisal Reda Al Mawsawee

Tenure: 4 years

Next election: 2006
 		  
THE STATE COUNCIL (MAJILIS ALOMMA) OF THE SULTANATE OF OMAN Top

There are a total of 58 members in the State Council of Oman, 49 Males and 9 Females, all appointed by His Majesty, the Sultan of Oman for 4-year renewable tenure. They can also be removed by the authority of the same King if they fail in their duties. The Sultan also has the power vested in him to dissolve the entire Council within the tenure or at the expiration of the tenure.

The Council is convened by a proclamation by His Majesty, the Sultan and sits for not less than eight months. The State Council and the lower chamber make up what the Oman Council.

PRINCIPAL OFFICERS
The Presiding Officer of the State Council of Oman is called the President, appointed at the same time with others by His Majesty, the Sultan of Oman for 4-year tenure. The Sultan can also remove him and he cannot retain his seat as a member of the Council in the even of the later.
He comes after the Prime Minister in the Country’s National Order of Precedence.

A BRIEF OUTLINE OF HIS DUTIES INCLUDES:
1. The supervision of the Council’s rules and activities.
2. Presiding of the Chamber meetings.
3. Represents the Council in official engagements.
4. He also supervises the budget preparation of the Council before it is presented in the chamber.

OTHER PRINCIPAL OFFICERS ARE:
1. Deputy President
2. The Chairs of the Committees
3. The Secretary General

These officers are all elected with the exception of the Secretary General who is appointed by the Sultan. The elected officers can be removed by the same Council that elected them if they fall short of the membership stipulations.

THE FUNCTIONS OF OTHER PRINCIPAL OFFICERS ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. The Deputy President presides over the Council’s meetings in the absence of the President and takes care of the Council’s office.
2. The Chairs of the Committees preside over the activities of their different Committees.
3. The Secretary General is in charge of the General Administration of the Council.


COMMITTEE SYSTEM
The State Council of Sultanate of Oman runs a Committee System. There are five Committees in the Council each having a membership of between 10 to 13 members. The President of Council does not belong to any Committee. Each Committee has a Chairman and a Vice Chairman. The Chairmen of the Committees are elected by the different Committees for a 4-year renewable tenure. The power also rests in the members of the Committees to replace any Chairman if the need arises before the end of the tenure. The Committees have as roles in the legislative process to study and analyze issues referred to it and present report on them.

FUNCTIONS OF THE COUNCIL
The Council studies to enhance and execute the development plan of the country. It also presents proposals to encourage investment in different fields, the development of manpower or human resources and the improvement of performance at different Government organs. It also reviews bills before it can be signed into law. The Council also studies and analyses any other matter that is referred to it from the Sultan and from the Cabinet.

The State Council of Oman has standing rules for its business, which can also be amended by the Council but the basic laws can only be amended by a law issued by His Majesty, the Sultan.

The Chamber has the power to discipline its members when they go contrary to the rules and regulations guiding their conduct.
A member cannot be questioned for expressing his opinions neither can he be sued except on an approval by the Council. The Council is autonomous in the recruitment of its staff and controls its own budget.

THE STRUCTURE OF THE STATE COUNCIL OF OMAN CONSISTS OF:

1. The President of the Council
2. The Secretary General
3. Assistant Secretary for Finance
4. Assistant Secretary for Meeting Affairs
5. Assistant Secretary for Information and Research

ADDRESS
The State Council of Oman
P.O. Box 59
Postal code 133
Al Khoir – Sultanate of Oman
Telephone – 0096824699044
Fax – 0096824697927
Email – stateoman@omantel.net.om
Website – www.statecouncil.gov.om

CURRENT PRESIDING OFFICER
His Excellency, Dr. Yehia Bin Mahfouz Al Muntheri
Tenure: 4 years
Next election: 2007		  
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THE Swaziland Senate  

The Swaziland Senate has a total of 30 members – 19 males and 11 females.

The process of entry into the chamber is by Appointment.  10 members are appointed by the House of Assembly while 20 are appointed by the King.  The House of Assembly constitutes itself into an electoral college for this purpose.  The duration of the members’ mandate is 5 years.

A member can be removed before the end of the tenure by the King in Council if convicted for an offence with a sentence not less than six months imprisonment.  The chamber is convened by messages passed through the radio, telephone and by the Presiding Officers.

The chamber can be dissolved according to Order No 1 of 1992 and by the King in Council (SNC).  The Senate and the lower chamber complement each other.  The Senate sits for at least 7 months in one year.

Principal Officers

The Presiding Officer is called the President of the Senate.  He has five years mandate as the Presiding Officer.

He is appointed/elected into the House at the same time with others, before being elected as the President.

Functions of the Presiding Officer

1.  He is an overall arbiter in the chamber which entails maintenance of order during debates.

2. He draws the Agenda of the Senate’s business.

3. He calls and selects Speakers on the floor of the chamber.

The President of the Senate is the Principal and head of the legislature.  He must obtain the highest number of votes cast in the chamber among three contestants for his election.

He can be removed from office before the end of his tenure by the members of the chamber if a vote of no confidence is passed on him or if he is convicted for an offence exceeding an imprisonment term of 6 months.

In the event of his removal, he retains his seat in the Chamber.

Other Principal Officers are:

1.  Deputy President

2.  Chairpersons of sessional and ad hoc committees.

The other Principal Officers can also be removed from office before the end of the tenure by the King or if convicted for an offence exceeding an imprisonment term of 6 months.

Functions of other Principal Officers

1.   The Deputy President acts as the President in his absence.

2.    The Chairpersons of sessional / ad-hoc committees.

(a)              Convene committee meetings.

(b)             Maintain law and order in the committee meetings.

(c)              Prepare reports of committees and presents them to the chamber.

These other Principal Officers are elected by the Senators.

Committee System

The Swaziland Senate operates a committee system and each committee is made up of 7 members.  The President of the Senate belongs to a committee.  The welfare committee caters for the welfare of the Senators.

Committee Structure

1.     Chairperson and his/her Vice.

2.     Committee members.

3.     Clerkship – Senate Clerk or any Clerk who may be so delegated by the Clerk of the Senate.

The committees are classified into:

(a)              Standing Orders Committee

(b)             Welfare

(c)              Government Assurances Committee

(d)             Sessional Committee

Sessional committees have 1 year tenure while ad-hoc committees end with their assignments.

The Chairmen of the committees are appointed by the Senators.  A committee Chair convenes meetings, maintains order and presents report to the chamber.  Swaziland is a non-party state.

Functions of the Chamber

The Senate has oversight functions with regard to other arms of government and these functions are performed by the government assurances committee.

It also ratifies and domesticates international conventions.

It also sits as a court.

There are standing rules that guide the business of the chamber.  Legislations also exist which specify the relationship between the chamber and the other arms of government.  It can also amend/suspend its rules and can discipline erring members.

A Senator cannot be arrested in the premises of Parliament.  Recruitment matters are handled by the Ministry of Public Service which houses the Civil Service Board.  The Senate does not control its own budget.  The Ministry of Finance through the Treasury Department does.

Structure of the Senate

1.       President

2.       Deputy President

3.       Chairmen of Sessional/ad-hoc committees

4.       Clerk of the Senate

Address

Swaziland Senate

P.O. Box 37

Lobamba, Swaziland

Phone: +268-4161286/7

Fax:  +268-4161603

Current President:  H.E. M. Mathandele Dlamini

Tenure:  2003 – 2008

Next election:  October, 2008

 

 		  
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THE SENATE OF RWANDA

The Senate of Rwanda is composed of 26 members (17 males and 9 females). Fourteen members are elected while twelve are appointed. They are elected for an eight-year non-renewable tenure.

 Members of the Senate are citizens of impeccable character possessing the qualities of "inararibonye" who are elected or appointed objectively based on individual merit without regard to political affiliation. They are highly skilled in the fields of science, law, economics, politics, sociology, culture and are persons who have held senior positions in the public or private sectors.

A candidate for the Senate must fulfil the following requirements:

1°     satisfaction of the criteria specified in Article 82 of Rwandan Constitution;

2°     being an inararibonye;

3°     having irreproachable morals and probity;

4°     not having been deprived of civil and political rights;

5°     being  at least forty years old;

6°     Not having been sentenced by a court of last instance to a term of imprisonment of six months or more in respect of which there has been no amnesty or rehabilitation.

As stated earlier, 12 members are elected by the specific councils in accordance with the administrative entities. One University lecturer of at least the rank of Associate professor or researcher, elected by academic and research staff of public universities and institutions of higher learning. Another university lecturer of at least the rank of Associate Professor or researcher, elected by academic and research staff of Private universities and institutions of higher learning

The President of the Republic appoints eight members while the Forum of Political organizations designates four members

Former Heads of State who honourably completed their terms or voluntarily resigned from office become Senators upon their request to the Supreme Court.

                                                                                                                         

A Member can be removed before the end of the tenure by the 3/5 of the members present.

A Member shall be of high integrity and good morals in or out of the Senate. He or she shall especially avoid the following:

1° drunkenness;

2° dishonesty;

3° barbarism;

4° to use his or her authority to serve his or her own interest;

5° any other conduct which could jeopardize his or her personality or his or her position.

Any Member found guilty of breaches referred to in this article may be warned, reprimanded or excluded from the Senate upon approval by three-fifths (3/5) of the Members present.

The President of the Senate convenes sessions and sittings through writing respecting specifications mentioned in the rules of procedure.

The Senate of Rwanda cannot be dissolved.

Specified draft bills are first voted by the Lower Chamber and transmitted to the Senate. Laws voted by the Senate are retransmitted to the Lower Chamber, which now sends them to the President of the Republic for promulgation.

In the event where the Senate does not approve a bill forwarded to it or amendments to a bill proposed by the Senate are not acceptable to the Chamber of Deputies, both Chambers set up a joint committee composed of an equal number of Deputies and Senators which examines the bill and makes proposals on matters still being debated.

An annual report is submitted to both Chambers in joint sittings by:

1. The Office of the Auditor General of State Finances;

1. The Office of the Ombudsman;

1. The National Electoral Commission;

1. The National Human Rights Commission

Both Chambers study the reports and make recommendations to the Government.

The Senate does not have the prerogative to initiate bills. Only the Lower Chamber can.

The Senate sits in three ordinary sessions of 2 months each (180days) in one year.

 PRINCIPAL OFFICERS

The president is elected by members at the first sitting chaired by the President of the republic through secret ballot and by an absolute majority vote of the Members present for a period of 8 years.

Brief outline of the functions of the President.

The President has among others the following functions

1. To officially represent the Senate;

2. To call Members to ordinary and extraordinary sessions;

3. To open and close ordinary and extraordinary sessions;

4. To convene and preside over plenary sittings;

5. To maintain order in the plenary sitting;

6. To oversee relations between the Senate and other local and foreign Institutions;

7. To manage and coordinate the activities of the Bureau;

8. To chair meetings of the Conference of Chairpersons;

9. To oversee the implementation of decisions made by the Bureau, the Conference of Chairpersons and the Plenary Assembly;

10. To inform the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister of the Senate’s programme of activities;

11. To coordinate different activities related to field visits to the population by Members;

12. To inform Members of the reception of Cabinet decisions and make them available for Consultation;

13. To be the Principal paymaster of the Senate;

14. To oversee the activities of the Clerk of the Senate;

15. To coordinate the Senate’s capacity building programmes

16. To chair debates in joint-sessions of both Chambers in the absence of the Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies.

In the Rwandan National Order of Precedence, he is the no.2 after the President of the Republic.

The President can be removed before the end of his tenure upon request of one-third (1/3) of Members but he retains his seat in the chamber if this happens.

Designations of other Principal Officers

Senate together with the President are elected the same way as for the President

(i) Two vice Presidents of the Senate that constitute the Bureau of the Senate

(ii)   The Clerk of the Senate who is not a Senator but a civil servant

The other Principal Officers can also be removed from office before the end of tenure just as the president.

Brief outline of the functions of other Principal Officers

The Vice Presidents have the following functions:

Stand in for the President in  his or her absence. The specific duties of one of the Vice-Presidents are as follows:

 

1.To stand in for the President of the Senate in  his or her absence;

2.To oversee legislative activities;

3.To oversee activities relating to the control of the respect of the fundamental principles

   referred to in the Constitution;

4.To oversee activities regarding the executive oversight;

5.To carry out any other activities assigned by the Bureau and related to his or her duties .

The duties of the other Vice-President are as follows:

1. To stand in for the President in case the Vice-President who duly fulfils that duty is absent

2. To oversee management and administrative affairs;

3. To oversee the relations of the Senate with other local and foreign Institutions;

4. To carry out any other activity assigned to him or her by the Bureau and related to his or her duties.

The Plenary Assembly determines modalities for distributing duties to the Vice-Presidents.

COMMITTEE SYSTEM

The Senate of Rwanda has four committees. There is also a committee in charge of the conduct of Members and assessment of the Senate activities. Each committee is made up of an average of five members. The President does not belong to any Committee

In the legislative process in general, each committee examines draft bills that relate to its attributions; (e.g. economic related draft bills by the committee on economy and Finance…). The committees are made up of the chairperson, deputy and ordinary members.

The committees are classified into:

The standing   Committee on  Political  Affairs and  Good  Governance

The  Standing Committee on Economic  Development and Finance

The Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and Security

The  Standing Committee on Social  Affairs, petitions and Human R

The plenary assembly elects the Chairmen of Committees for tenure of four years.

The chairs convene and chair committees meetings.

POLITICAL PARTIES

Members are not elected or appointed on political parties’ basis though they belong to different political parties.

FUNCTIONS OF THE CHAMBER

The senate has oversight functions with regard to other arms of Government

The Senate is also involved in the foreign policy process of the country through Parliamentary diplomacy.   

Apart from legislative functions, the senate also approves and elects high officials of the country like   Ambassadors, governors, etc. It also supervises the application of the principles referred to it by the constitution.

The Chamber has Standing Rules for its business. It can amend its rules and enforce discipline among its members. As provided for in article 69 of the Constitution, no Member shall be prosecuted, pursued, arrested, detained or judged for any opinion expressed or votes made by him or her in the exercise of his or her duties.

The Senate works in conjunction with the Ministry of Public service for the recruitment of staff.

The structure of the Senate is as follows:

1. The Plenary Assembly

2. The Conference of Chairpersons

3. The Bureau

ADDRESS

The Senate of Rwanda

P.O Box 6729 Kigali/Rwanda

Telephone Number(s): (250) 582283 -(250) 582286-(250) 587912

Fax Number: (250) 582281- (250) 582283

Email: presse@rwanda1.com

Website: www.rwandaparliament.gov.rw

Current President: Dr BIRUTA Vincent

Tenure: 8years like other members but the term of office as presiding officer is not specified

Date of the next election: 2011