Imperial Constitution (new)

ARTICLE I. PROMULGATION AND PREAMBLE

We the People of the Aksum Imperium, sentient species and wandering tribes in the support and under the leadership of Rasim Aeon, Founder of the Imperium, whom, by virtue of the glories of Our Ancestors, ascended the throne of a lineal succession unbroken for ages eternal; desiring to promote the welfare of, and to give development to the moral and intellectual faculties of the Citizens of the Imperium, the very same that have been favored with the benevolent care and affectionate vigilance of Our Ancestors; ever mindful of our desire to arise again to greatness; with inspiration and a resolute desire to establish this nation based on justice, law, and freedom; and hoping to maintain the prosperity of the Imperium, in concert with Our people and with their support, Hereby promulgate, in pursuance of Our Imperial Rescript of the 10th day of the 2nd month of 2023, in the 13th year of the Imperium, the Supreme Law of the Imperium, to exhibit the principles, by which We are guided in Our conduct, and to point out to what Our descendants and Our subjects and their descendants are forever to conform. The right of sovereignty of the Imperium, We have inherited from Our Ancestors, and We shall bequeath them to Our descendants. Neither We nor they shall in future fail to wield them, in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution hereby granted. We now declare to respect and protect the security of the rights of Our people, and to secure to them the complete enjoyment of the same, within the extent of the provisions of this Constitution and of the law. The Imperial Magnus or an Imperial Plebiscite shall first be convoked and the time of its opening shall be the date, when this present Constitution comes into force. When in the future it may become necessary to amend any of the provisions of the present Constitution, We or Our successors shall assume the initiative right, and submit a project for the same to a Conclave of the Imperial Court. The Imperial Court shall pass its vote upon it, according to the conditions imposed by the present Constitution, and in no otherwise shall Our descendants or Our subjects be permitted to attempt any alteration thereof. Our Grand Officers of State, on Our behalf, shall be held responsible for the carrying out of the present Constitution, and Our present and future subjects shall forever assume the duty of allegiance to the present Constitution.  We therefore ordain this 7th Constitution of the Aksum Imperium as the Supreme Law of Our Realm.

ARTICLE II. DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

I Rasim, Lord of the House of Aeon, Supreme Warlord and Protector of the Imperium, King of Aksum, Prince of Aeonia, Duke of Aksum Prime, and Count of Falcone, do reaffirm and proclaim the Aksum Imperium to be an independent and sovereign nation the Metaverse. 1st Promulgated on the 20th of March 2009 (1st YoA); restated the 20th of March 2010; amended on the 15th day of June 2012; redeclared a 4th time on 19 March 2014, the fifth year of Aksum; and again, reaffirmed on 31 July 2017 the 8th year of the Imperiu; reaffirmed and promulgated in the Imperial Charter of 2021 in June of 2021; and restated in the 6th Constitution on the 4th day of March 2021, YOA 12 and now in this the 7th Constitution in the 7th Imperium, YOA 13.

ARTICLE III. THE IMPERIUM

Section 1. Presence

The Aksum Imperium is a nation of persons without regard to race, ethnicity, gender, or sexuality, coming together as a community in the metaverse

Section 2. Official Language

There shall be no official language for the whole of the Imperium; however, the language of the Emperor/Sovereign shall be considered the primary language.  Every attempt shall be made to accommodate all languages spoken.

Section 3. Scope

The Constitution applies to all parts of the Aksum Imperium, its constituent realms and dominions, divisions, protectorates, and colonies no matter the location (forum, in-world, chat, in-person).

Section 4. State Form

The form of government shall be that of a constitutional monarchy.  Supreme authority resides in the monarch and is delegated to the various elements of the Imperium.

Section 5. Capital City

The Permanent Capital of the Imperium is Aksum City; however where the Emperor holds court or council shall be deemed a temporary capital by Imperial decree

Section 6. The Flag

The Flag of the Imperium has a black background with a vertical gold stripe crossing a horizontal blue stripe down the middle and on them resting the The Imperial Coat of Arms. The black represents the boldness of the people to attempt whatever they choose, however they choose; the gold is for the richness of ideas and the malleability of the people to handle situations, and the Blue is for stability, loyalty, intelligence, and faith.

Section 7. Coat of Arms

The coat of arms is adopted from the Imperial House of Aeon; however the Imperium may adopt a coat of arms by Imperial Decree.

Section 8. Imperial Anthem, March, and Song

There shall be an Imperial Anthem, Also Sprach Zarathustra (the opening of 2001 Space Odyssey, we do not own the rights, used only with a purchased license) shall be played to open all major events in Aksum. The Imperial March, Lux Aterna (Requiem for A Dream) shall be played for Imperial Performances including coronations, of openings of the Grand Assembly, and swearing of Officers of the Realm. The Imperial Song is If You’re Out There, by John Legend. (The copyrights of these remain with the original authors and are only used with a purchased license). The Emperor may adopt or permit the adoption of new anthems, marches, and songs.

Section 9. Imperial Motto

The Imperial Motto is “Vi et Animo” translated as “By Strength and Courage”

ARTICLE IV. THE MONARCHY

Section 1. Styling of the Monarch

The Aksum Imperium is a constitutional monarchy with a Sovereign titled as Emperor, as the Head of State.  The historic and official title of the Emperor of Aksum is: "His/her Imperial Majesty _______(name), by the Light of the Creator, Emperor of the Aksum Imperium and all of its Dominions,Realms, and Regions, Founder of the Imperium, King of Aksum, Grand Prince of Falcone, Supreme Grand Master of the Illustrious Knightly Orders of Aksum, Supreme Magistrate, Supreme Commander of the Imperial Forces, Supreme Protector and Humble Chief Servant of the People of Aksum, High Lord of the House of Aeon, and Supreme Magnus/Councilor of Aksum. The titles along with the dignity shall pass to the Emperor's successors. However, because the nation owes its existence to Emperor Rasim, the phrase of Founder does not pass but shall always pertain to Rasim. The Emperor may use another title with concurrence of the Imperial Court.

Section 2. Prerogatives

The Emperor is the symbolic, spiritual, and nominal head of the nation. He shall rule by justice, fairness, and within the guidelines of this Constitution. His Imperial Powers and Prerogatives are:

The right to declare Imperial holidays, grant titles of nobility , make the annual Imperial Address on the 21st day of June (or at other times when events warrant, as close to the Summer Solstice as possible); sign bills into law; veto bills; give or deny Imperial Assent to any laws, edicts, dictates, regulations, or ordinances by any council or assembly in the Imperium;  grant pardons and commute sentences; confer awards and decorations; approve orders of knighthood; issue Writs of Dissolution and Warrants of Prorogation for the Imperial Legislature; declare war with the consent of the Imperial Court; sign treaties; establish the framework for the management of nobles; convene an Imperial Magnus; open any Imperial Council or legislature at each session; command the armed forces; grant military commissions; declare martial law and rule directly; declare a state of emergency and direct the organization of a temporary government; and issue decrees to provide for the governance, stability, and survival of the Imperium. These Prerogatives can only be delegated by Imperial Warrant or Decree.  

Section 3. Politics

No person shall attempt to involve the Emperor, nor shall he/she infringe or impose in politics; petty issues; minor and basic decisions; except to ensure the survival of the Imperium.

Section. 4. Regency

The Emperor may designate a Regent by decree

Where the Emperor is absent for a period exceeding thirty days (30) from his last presence in the Imperium the Heir or Regent shall act.  

In case of prolonged absence of the Emperor, the Grand Imperial Council, upon notification by the Emperor in public forum, shall, if no regent is designated, temporarily assume those duties.

Section 5. Reigning no Other Countries

The Emperor shall not reign in other countries, unless those countries are subject to this Constitution.

Section 6. Powers of the Monarch

Subsection A. Supreme Authority

Subject to limitations laid down in this Constitution the Emperor shall have the supreme authority in all affairs of the realm. The executive, legislative, judicial, and martial powers and authorities of the Imperium are vested in the Emperor and delegated by this Constitution and Imperial Decrees.

Subsection B. Appointment and Removal of Officers of State

The Emperor by Imperial Decree and this decree may delegate duties to individuals designated as Officers of State.  The Emperor shall decide upon the number of officers, the different levels and categories, and duties by Imperial Decree.  The Emperor may appoint or dismiss any of these officers or delegate it to the Imperial Magnus, a Council, or an individual.  The Emperor may delegate this duty by decree.

The Emperor may at whim, appoint, replace, or remove a Regent, an Officer of State, or a member of the Imperial Court, or delegate it, and may by his last Will and Testament appoint a Regent to serve during the minority of his successor. Minority is defined as not being of 18 years of age(rl), not having a forum account

Subsection C. Imperial Household/Chambers

The Emperor chooses and dismisses, at his discretion, the Imperial Chambers and members of the Imperial Household.  He shall appoint an officer of state to oversee this agency.

Subsection D. Supreme Commander

The Emperor is the Supreme Command-in-Chief of all defense and security forces of the Imperium.  These forces may be organized, decreased, or increased solely by decree of Imperial Decree.  Forces may not be transferred to the service of foreign powers but may be allowed to assist or work alongside.  The Emperor has the sole authority to employ troops outside of the Imperium.  Unless a Martial Law or a State of Emergency is declared the Imperial Police will be the only force of the Imperium with the authority to arrest or detain a Citizen of the Imperium. Members of the Imperial Guard will remain separate and apart from politics unless otherwise stated in a decree.

Subsection E. Imperial Decrees

The Emperor shall have the power to enact or change any law by Imperial Decree.  The Emperor may suspend the Constitution if He deems it in the best interests of the Imperium or where not doing so could endanger the continued existence and integrity of the Imperium.  Where the Constitution has been suspended, the Emperor is required to act in the best interests of the Imperium and the people until such a time as it can be reinstated by Imperial Decree and whereupon an appropriate legislative body may be convened to act in that capacity.

Subsection F. Nobility, Titles, and Knighthood

The Emperor shall make provisions by Imperial Decree concerning titles for those who are entitled.  The Emperor shall be the Sovereign or Patron for all Orders for which he has granted Imperial Assent and is not a member.

Section 7. Inviolability

The Emperor shall not be answerable for his actions; his person shall be sacred, inviolable and sacrosanct. Neither the Emperor nor any person he designates by decree shall be subject to prosecution or subpoena.  

Section 8. Removal of the Emperor

The Emperor may only be removed by abdication or by a ¾ vote of an Imperial Court and confirmed by a ⅔ vote of the Imperial Magnus, meeting for that specific purpose.  

Section 9. Spouses of the Emperor.

The Emperor may have a single or multiple spouses. However, if he chooses to have multiple spouses, the first must consent and they must be approved by the Imperial Court.

Section 10. Heirs to the Throne

Subsection A. Designation and Assendance

The Sun Throne of Aksum shall be inherited by the descendants of His Majesty, Rasim, Emperor of Aksum, who are members of the House of Aeon. The present Imperial Family is styled The Imperial House of Aeon. Should the Emperor at any time renounce his citizenship, that renunciation or loss shall be deemed to imply his abdication of the Throne. Upon the demise, abdication, or removal from the Throne by any Emperor, the Crown shall pass to the next heir or the senior member of the House of Aeon. The Emperor will issue an Imperial decree declaring the line of succession. This will be reviewed at each Solstice and Equinox.

Subsection B. Styles of the Heir

The Heir Apparent shall be styled as His/her Imperial Highness, the Crown Prince/Princess of the Imperium. The Heir shall be considered Officer of State.

Subsection C. Consent to Succession

The designated heir to the Throne of the Imperium may not accept the crown from any other nation or government without the consent of the Emperor.  If he or she acts contrary to this rule, they and their descendants forfeit their right to the Throne.

Subsection D. Immunity of the Heir

The Imperial Crown Prince/Princess will not personally be answerable to anyone other than the Emperor, or whomever he decrees to sit in judgment of them.

Section 11. The Covenant

The Monarch shall restate the following oath at the annual Summer Imperial Magnus:

I, (name), Sovereign of the Imperium, solemnly and sincerely promise and swear that I will execute the duties of my office to the best of my ability; that I will uphold the law, rule with fairness, and govern righteously, within the tenants of this Constitution and in matter that is best for the protection of the Imperium.  I promise and swear to not promote tyranny, but fight it with my dying breath; and that I would faithfully and properly embody the spirit of the Imperium before all; and occupy the Sun Throne with humility and without hubris.”

ARTICLE V. THE IMPERIAL MAGNUS

Section 1. Formation

An Imperial Magnus shall be formed consisting of the Emperor, the members of the Grand Imperial Court, Members of dominion and state legislatures and any others that the Emperor appoints by decree.

Section 2. Presiding Officer

The Emperor as Supreme Magnus shall preside over the Imperial Magnus. He shall summon this body annually on or around the Summer Solstice, to deliver the Imperial Address, select the Grand Imperial Viceroy when vacant; review the Constitution, and vote on any changes; hear petitions from Citizens on any matter; and take up any other matter regarding the Imperium that a Magnus may wish to bring forward. The Emperor may choose to adhere to the final votes or disband the Magnus. All votes of the Imperial Magnus require 2/3 vote for passage, except where otherwise stated. The Emperor may at any time convene an Imperial Magnus to discuss major issues.

Section 3. Powers.

All powers and authority of the Imperium and the Monarch are inherent in an Imperial Magnus, and also includes: The ability to overturn any Imperial Decree by 3/4 vote; Sit as the Court of Impeachment for the Emperor, requiring a 3/4 vote of all registered members to impeach; vote on and propose amendments to the constitution; vote no confidence in any Officer of State and stand as a court of impeachment of the same; vote no confidence of any Imperial Council, or local government and recommend dissolution.

Section 4. Immunity

During a Session of an Imperial Magnus all members are immune to normal prosecution or subpoena except by the Magnus or the Monarch; and may only be punished by a 2/3 vote of the Imperial Magnus.

ARTICLE VI. THE GRAND IMPERIAL COURT

Section 1. Establishment

The Grand Imperial Court of the Aksum Imperium is the full governance of the Imperium, subordinate only to the Monarch and the Imperial Magnus, exercising the Executive, Legislative, Judicial, and Martial Authority of the Monarch.

Section 2. Membership of the Court

The Emperor by decree shall appoint or provide for the method to obtain membership to the Court which shall consist of a minimum of seven (7) Citizens.  An Imperial Executor, who shall oversee the Court and its members, the heads of the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches, shall at a minimum be members of the Court.  Beyond these, the Emperor may appoint and designate any Citizen to be a member of the Court.

Section 3. Oath of Membership

All members of the Imperial Court shall be sworn by reciting the following Oath of Office: I, (name), having been appointing a member of the Grand Imperial Court, will faithfully execute the office of His Imperial Majesty’s (office) of the Aksum Imperium, I pledge my loyalty and fealty to the Emperor of the Imperium; will to the best of my ability defend the integrity of the Imperium, bear true faith and allegiance to the same, that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; that I will obey the rules of the Imperial Court; and that I will faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter.  By Strength and Courage. Long Live the Emperor and the Imperium!!!

Section 4. Duties of the Imperial Court

The Imperial Court may enact the full authority of the government of the Imperium when in session, with the assent of the Monarch. It may review all laws, decrees, edicts, dictates, regulations passed between each session of the Court known as an Imperial Conclave. The Court settles disputes, makes recommendations to the  Monarch on anything covering the governance of the Imperium; serves as the Imperial Regency Council when there is no Heir or Regent; attends all special or regular Magnuses; and punish members of the Court.

Section 5. Officers of the Court

The Officers of the Imperial Court consists, at the minimum of, the Monarch, the Imperial Executor, and any others the Sovereign determines by decree. These individuals shall hold corresponding positions in the Imperium and exercise their duties when the Court is in Magnus or other conclave. These individuals shall collectively form the nucleus of the Grand Imperial  Council of the Imperial Court. They shall meet at least once at quarter or at the call of the Sovereign.

Section 6. Officers of State

The Emperor shall establish the positions and levels of Officers of State that shall make up the Imperial Court and execute the governance of the Imperium.  The most senior officer of state shall be the Imperial Executor.

Subsection A.  The Imperial Executor.

The Emperor may appoint a Citizen to serve as the Imperial Executor to chair the Grand Imperial Council on his behalf.  He/she shall be styled His Imperial Grace the Grand Imperial Viceroy.

Eligibility.  Any person having been a Citizen for at least one year, having achieved nobility is eligible to be the Grand Imperial Viceroy.

Selection.  The Emperor may appoint directly, ask for recommendations from the Grand Imperial Court, or ask the Imperial Magnus to nominate an individual.

Duties. The Grand Imperial Viceroy, or GIV, when appointed, shall oversee the Grand Imperial Court of the Imperium on behalf of the Monarch. He/she shall be immune from prosecution but subject to punishment by the Emperor or Imperial Magnus.  He/she shall serve as the Chair Pro Tempore of the Imperial Court, shall Chair the Grand Imperial Council, the Imperial Council of State, and other council the Emperor or the Imperial Magnus may see fit. He/she shall be second only to the Emperor, except when a Regent is named and is acting in the absence of the Monarch.  He/she shall preside over all meetings of the Court in absence or on behalf of the Monarch.  He/she is an ex-officio of all Councils of the Imperium, and may step in assume the chair of any council on behalf of the Emperor.

Powers.  The Grand Imperial Viceroy may issue Decrees on behalf of the Monarch or at his/her direction.  He/she may issue edicts or prime dictates in his/her own right; recommend nobility and knighthood; changes to the Imperial Court; direct the opening or closing of a Council; temporarily suspend members of the Imperial Court; and others that may hereafter be granted by this Constitution, Imperial Decree, or Public Law.

Subsection B. Grand Imperial Chancellor

The Emperor may appoint a Citizen to serve as the Head of Government and Chair of the Imperial Council of State, who may be called the Grand Imperial Chancellor or other name.  His/her term shall be two years. He/she shall be styled, His/Her Imperial Grace the Grand Imperial Chancellor.

Eligibility.  To be eligible the individual must have been a Citizen for at least one year and is an Imperial Knight.

Selection.  The Emperor may appoint directly, ask for recommendations from the Grand Imperial Court, or ask the Imperial Magnus to nominate an individual.

Duties. Serves act as the immediate deputy to the GIV and Vice Chair of the Imperial Council of State, responsible for external affairs, including international relations, treaties, and diplomacy; Issue edicts on behalf of the GIV; may issue decrees in the name of the Monarch, Edicts or Dictates on behalf of the Grand Imperial Viceroy;  submit laws for consideration by the legislature; and other duties required by this Constitution or assigned by the Monarch or Grand Imperial Viceroy.

Powers. The Grand Imperial Chancellor issues Imperial Dictates to set the direction or execution of laws and decrees, and set policy for the Offices related the functions of the position.

Subsection C. Grand Imperial Marshal

The Emperor may appoint a Citizen to serve as the operational Head of Imperial Forces and Chair of the Imperial Council of Defense and Security, who may be called the Grand Imperial Marshal or other name determined by decree. He/she shall be styled, “His/Her Imperial Grace the Grand Marshal

Eligibility. To be eligible must have served at least one year in the Imperial Service and is an Imperial Knight.

Selection.  The Emperor is the sole authority to appoint this individual.

Duties.  Serves as the nominal chair of the Imperial Council of Defense and Security on behalf of the Monarch, issue decrees on behalf of the Monarch, issue edicts on behalf of the Grand Imperial Viceroy, and Directives on all matters within the competence of the position; oversee the Imperial Service, responsible for training, maintaining, disciplining, and administering the same; represent the Imperium and the Monarch in all matters related to defense and security; and perform any other duties assigned by the Monarch.

Powers. The Grand Imperial Marshal conducts the day to day business of the Imperial Service and Imperial Council of Defense and Security and all functions related to it. He/she manages the threat conditions, defense postures, and issues orders to achieve goals and directives set by the Monarch.

Subsection D. The Grand Imperial Chamberlain

The Emperor may appoint a Citizen to serve as His/Her head of the Imperial Household and Imperial Chambers.

Eligibility.  This individual must be a Citizen for one year, has served in the Imperial Service, and is at least an Imperial Knight.

Selection. The Monarch is the sole appointment authority.

Duties. Serves as the Chief of the Monarch’s direct staff; oversees the Office of the Monarch, the Imperial Palaces, Imperial Protectorates, and other holdings of the Monarch; oversees gatherings or councils of the nobility; serves as the Dean of the Imperial Court, ensuring protocols are maintained; appoints the lessor officers within the Chambers; assists the Grand Imperial Viceroy in his/her functions; and performs any other duties assigned by the Monarch.

Powers. The Grand Imperial Chamberlain may suspend any member of the court temporarily, then present the matter in conclave or the Monarch for final disposition; may initiate inquisitions on members of the court and the nobility; and issues decrees when directed by the Monarch.

Subsection E. The Grand Imperial Magistrate

The Emperor may appoint a Citizen to serve as the chair of the Council of Magistrates, and head of the Imperial Judiciary.

Eligibility.  This individual must be a Citizen for one year, a member of the Barrister’s Council; and is at least an Imperial Knight but not a Royal.

Selection.  The Monarch appoints on the recommendation of the Grand Imperial Viceroy.

Duties. Sets procedures for the Council meetings; oversees the Imperial Judiciary, including education and standards; serves as or appoints the Chair of the Imperial Barristers Council with consent of the Council of Magistrates and the Sovereign;  oversees the offices that support the Imperial Judiciary; recommends and/or certifies appointments to the Imperial Judiciary.

Subsection F. The Grand Imperial Praetor

The Emperor may appoint or have elected by the Imperium a Citizen to serve as the Head of the Legislature, who may be called the Grand Imperial Praetor or such other name by decree or law.

Eligibility.  This individual must be a Citizen for at least one year, waiverable by the Emperor or Grand Imperial Council; can not be a royal; and must have a declared residence.

Selection. The individual is selected from the Imperium At-Large either by Imperial Appointment or Election.

Duties. Chairs the Imperial Council of Deliberation; appoints committee chairs; appoints the officers and secretariat of the Council with the consent of the Executive Committee; serves on the Grand Imperial Council; performs other duties as stated by this Constitution, by decree, or law

Section 7. The Grand Imperial Council of the Imperial Court

Subsection A. Membership.

The Grand Imperial Council of the Court also known as the Grand Imperial Council of the Imperium, or just the Grand Imperial Council.  It consists at a minimum, the Monarch, the Grand Imperial Viceroy, the Grand Imperial Chancellor, the Sovereigns of the Imperial Dominions,  designated Officers of State; and any others the Monarch decrees.

Subsection B. Status

The Grand Imperial Council is the senior council of the Imperial Court.

Subsection C. Vacancies.

Vacancies on the Grand Imperial Council are filled in accordance with this Constitution or Imperial Decree

Section 8. The Imperial Council of State

Subsection A. General.

The executive power of the Sovereign and the Imperial, at the will of the Monarch, is vested in an Imperial Council of State which serves the Executive Branch of the Imperial Government. This Council conducts the day to day operations and business of the Imperium, assisting with the management of each Council. Members of the Council of State may issue edicts within their purview.  The Grand Imperial Viceroy or their designee may issue Prime Dictates to determine how a decree or act/law is executed.   This Council is led by the Grand Imperial Viceroy, and contains officers of state that covers: foreign affairs, internal state affairs, archives and imperial seals, social services, execution of justice, the inquisition, audit and compliance, finance, trade, commerce, public works, infrastructure, and planning and development.  The actual membership and positions shall be determined by Law or Decree

Subsection B. Vacancies

When a vacancy occurs on this Council the Grand Imperial Viceroy shall appoint a replacement subject to the advice and consent of the appropriate Council or the Emperor

Subsection C. Disbandment

The Sovereign may disband the Council of State by decree.  The Council of Deliberation may conduct a vote of no-confidence, in which case the Sovereign may disband the Council of State or disband the Council of Deliberation.

Section 9. Imperial Council of Magistrates.

Subsection A. General

The judicial power of the Sovereign and the Imperium is vested in the Imperial Grand Tribunal and its subordinate courts of law.  Imperial Decree or Imperial Law may establish courts within the various territories of the Imperium.  The Imperial Council of Magistrates and serves as the lead agency for the Imperial Grand Tribunal.  There shall be no more than nine (9) members on this Council. It is led by an individual titled Grand Imperial Magistrate or some other name determined by decree. The Council of Magistrates shall form Grand Imperial Tribunals of at least three Imperial Magistrates.  The Council oversees the Imperial Judiciary and oversees the dominion and state judiciary and is the final body of appeals from the latter.  Except for the Grand Magistrate, Magistrates are appointed by the Imperial Grand Chancellor with the advice and consent of the Imperial Council of Deliberation or by Imperial Decree.

Subsection B. Officers

The Officers of the Council of Magistrates include the Grand Magistrate, Associate Grand Magistrate, and whatever additional officers are required to manage the Council and the Judiciary, as determined by Decree. The Grand Magistrate is appointed by the Sovereign with advice from the Imperial Council of Archons.

Subsection C. Disbandment

This Council can only be disbanded by the Sovereign during an Imperial Magnus, with a ⅔ concurrence of those voting. The Sovereign can suspend this body if it fails to perform its duties.

Section 10. Imperial Council of Deliberation

Subsection A. Establishment

The Council of Deliberation is established as the legislative council of the Imperium.  It shall be a unicameral (one chamber) body with an Executive Council and committees.

Subsection B. Membership

The Monarch, Grand Imperial Viceroy, Grand Imperial Chancellor and any other Officer of State designated by decree are ex-officio members of the Council of Deliberation but are not included in the count for a quorum.  Imperial Dominions shall elect two Senators each and the Imperium shall elect seven others, one of whom is the Grand Praetor. The Council shall not exceed 33 elected members. This number may be increased if new dominions are allowed. Seats shall be apportioned as needed.  Term for Senators shall be one year.  Political affiliation will not be the basis of membership or position.  Imperial Senators may not serve in any other legislature unless allowed by law. Imperial Senators may not serve in the Council of State or the Council of Justice.

Subsection C. Officers

The Officers of the Council of Deliberation are the Grand Praetor, who is elected by the Imperium at large or appointed by the Monarch;  Vice Grand Praetor who is elected by the full Council of Deliberation; an Executive Secretary of the Council, who is appointed by the Grand Praetor and approved by the Executive Committee, and leads the secretariat; the Chief Sergeant at Arms of the Council, who is from the Imperial Service; and the Chief Parliamentarian, who is appointed by the Grand Praetor and approved by the Executive Committee.

Subsection D. Executive Committee

The Grand Praetor, Vice Grand Praetor, and the chair of each Standing Committee shall compose the Executive Committee of the Council of Deliberation.  The Executive Committee shall approve the agenda, and approve appointments made by the Grand Praetor.

Subsection E. Method of Voting on Bills/Acts

Except where stated elsewhere: 1) All bills/acts presented by a council, requires the majority approval of the full Council of Deliberation prior to being submitted to the Grand Chancellor for signing; 2) Should the Grand Chancellor veto the bill/act, it is returned to the Council for consideration, a ⅔ vote is required to overturn the veto.  3) When the Grand Chancellor receives an act for consideration to be law, he/she shall have 7 days to respond, if he/she does not respond the bill/act shall become law; 4) The Sovereign may at any time approve a Bill to become law by decree.

Subsection F. Vacancies

Vacancies on this council will be filled by either a special election or an appointment by the Sovereign of that Imperial Dominion; or in the case of the at-large members, by Imperial Decree. A petition signed by seven (7) Citizens may force a special election.

Subsection G. Disbandment

The Grand Chancellor may request that the Monarch disband the Council.  If the Council is disbanded, the Monarch may relieve the Grand Chancellor of his/her duty, or direct a vote of confidence/no confidence. The Monarch holding ultimate authority may disband this council by decree for: 1) failure to meet; 2)violating Imperial Law; or 3) during a State of Emergency or Martial Law

Subsection H. Powers

In addition to any authority granted by Imperial Decree or Law, or elsewhere stated in this Constitution, the Imperial Council of Deliberation: 1) Considers whether to approve the appointments of the Grand Chancellor.  2) Shall establish committees for the oversight of the various ministries; 4) The power to impeach appointments made by the Grand Chancellor; 5) Considers all resolutions to void an Imperial Decree, Dictate, or Edict; 6) Raise or lower taxes through law or resolution subject to approval by Grand Chancellor.

Subsection I. Removal of Members

A member may be removed from the Imperial Legislature for (1) violating this Constitution; (2) violating rules of the Imperial Court; (3) disregard of the law; (4) recall by the Monarch, the Regent from the domain they represent, or a vote by the Residents of the Domain they represent; or (5) dismissed by a 2/3 vote of the legislature meeting for that specific purpose

Subsection J. Lessor Legislatures.

Legislatures of the Dominions and States shall be in a similar form as the Imperial Council of Deliberation.

ARTICLE VII. IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP

Section A. General

Residency in Aksum is only acquired by "legal" means. The exact procedure will be determined by law where not addressed in this Constitution. Children born to Aksum Citizens must still apply and be sponsored by parents.

Section B. Majority

To immigrate to the Imperium a person must enter through the Imperial Nexys or other location determined by decree.

Section C. Residency

Immigrants are not required to purchase, lease, or rent land to claim their status in the Imperium, or in any of its subdivisions, unless applying to be a Citizen. However an Immigrant, or Citizen may only be a resident of one Kingdom/state, except where otherwise required by law or decree.

Section D. Fraud

If it becomes known that an individual uses fraud or dishonesty in their application,   including false statements to officials, they may be prosecuted in the judicial system. The maximum punishment shall be expulsion. The monarch may commute such a sentence.

Section E. Denial

Any person denied citizenship may resubmit 30 days after the original denial.

Section F. Retainment of rights

Citizens of the Imperium may live within the Imperium or abroad. The distinction does not affect their standing or their civil or political rights. However, they must declare a home system and planet

Section G. Renouncement

Citizens may voluntarily renounce their citizenship. This may be done by a written Declaration of Renunciation and posted in the forums. A renouncement without notification shall incur a ban from the date of discovery and filing, as determined by the judiciary.

Section H. Immigration

Immigration is determined by application at a designated location as stated by law. Imperial law may provide for immigration procedures and the rights and obligations of  Immigrants. Imperial law may provide for the conditions of unfree persons and for the liberation of unfree persons. All persons completing the required prerequisite for Immigration shall have the right to petition for citizenship; serve in the imperial forces; have a family; and any other rights attributed to that status.  

Section I. Citizenship

Subsection 1. Levels of Citizenship

There shall be 7 levels of Citizenship in the Imperium.  They are:

1. Level I: Immigrant - must complete requirements in Section 8 of this Article.
2. Level II: Commoner - a basic level citizen, that can vote, doesn't own property, only can access one area of the Imperium, can only hold local office; must enlist in the Imperial Service for a minimum of three months or other term as determined by the Supreme Commander to be eligible for level III; has completed the most recent census; participates on the forums at least twice a month; can attend and observe the Magnus
3. Level III: Citizen - meets the requirements of Level II; can or has formed a family; can vote in Imperial elections; can petition to form a Clan; can purchase property; can be a Representative in the Imperial Council of Deliberation; can attend, speak, but not vote in the Magnus; submits petition for status; serve in the Imperial Service for six months as a Citizen to be eligible for Level IV
4. Level IV: Full Citizen - Owns property; is linked to a clan; can run for any and hold any non-nobility office; can lead a clan; attend, speak and vote during a Magnus; submits petition for status; serve in the Imperial Service for nine months.
5. Level V: Imperial Knight - All the above, leases land to a Full Citizens or Citizens, can serve in any capacity not requiring nobility, is a member of an Imperial Order of Knighthood.
6. Level VI: Imperial Nobility - All the above, holds any size land, can serve in any capacity, and granted a charter by the Monarch
7. Level VII: Royalty/High Nobility - All the above, leads a sovereign house, or is in the Imperial Family

The Emperor may suspend any part of this without notice and by decree, or delegate an individual or Council to do so.

Subsection 2

Imperial law or decree may provide for the recognition of nobility, for the acquisition and loss of citizenship, the rights and obligations of citizenship, and any additional requirements.

Subsection 3

Only Citizens who become Imperial Knights may become nobility.

Citizens may petition an established House to create a Clan, following all other procedures established by Imperial Law.

ARTICLE VIII. NOBILITY AND KNIGHTHOOD

Section1. Imperial Prerogative

The Emperor shall make or have made rules that govern the management of Nobility and Knighthood. All nobility flows from and to the Emperor.

Section 2. Titles

The Emperor shall determine the titles of nobility by Imperial Decree and in accordance with this Constitution.

Section 3. Classification and Designation.

Those that receive charters of nobility from the Emperor shall be considered in the Imperial Nobility. Those that are members of the Imperial Knightly Orders are considered Imperial Knights. The Emperor may grant the authority to issue nobility and knighthood to leaders of the Imperial subdivisions.

Section 4. The Houses of the Imperium.

Subsection A. Great Houses of the Imperium

There shall be 13 great houses in the Imperium. Based on lore and ancestry those houses being Aksum, Solace, Babylon, Gramos, Avalon, Acarecia, Mexia, Oria, Sangral, Maya, Thera, Lemuria, and Weredal. These Houses shall be considered Sovereign Houses with the Great House of Aksum considered Sovereign and Imperial as it shall be recognized as the ruling House of the Imperium. The Emperor may grant the leaders of a noble house as the Archons of these Great Houses, or serve in the capacity himself. When there is an Archon appointed to each house an Imperial Council of Archons is formed. Should research be confirmed the Emperor may change the name of any of these in order to properly reflect the history and lore of the Imperium.

Subsection B. Other Houses of the Imperium

The Emperor may establish additional levels of Houses and provide for or delegate a Council to provide for the rules of governance for these houses.

Subsection C. The Imperial Council of Sovereigns

1. General. An Imperial Council of Sovereigns shall be established by decree when there are three or more Sovereigns in place other than the Emperor. This Council shall elect a Grand Sovereign who shall chair its meetings. The Sovereign and Imperial House of Aksum is recognized as the first and permanent seat on this Council. The Emperor is its Sovereign and is recognized as the Grand Sovereign. The Imperial Magnus may vote to remove or add a Great House by 2/3 vote; but the council will not exceed thirteen (13) members.
2. Vacancy. Should there be a vacancy on the council, it should be filled by a 2/3 vote of that governing council of the House and subject to Imperial Assent.
3. Disbandment. This Council may be disbanded on the declaration of Martial Law and the establishment of a new Imperium.
4. Powers. The duties and powers of this Council shall be granted by decree, this Constitution, and the following: 1) Review the actions of the Sovereign and determine what actions to take within this Charter; 2) Nominate the Chair of the Council. 3)Oversee the established Great Houses and vote whether to recommend new houses. 4) Perform any duties by decree or directive issued by the Monarch. 5) Promote the well-being of the Imperium. 6)Serve as a regency council or appoint a regent in case of absence or inability of the Monarch.

ARTICLE IX.TERRITORIAL SUBDIVISIONS

Section 1. Establishment

The Emperor has the sole right to establish subdivisions of the Aksum Imperium; and may decree additional rules beyond this article and/or delegate the responsibility to the Imperial Court or one of its agencies.

Section 2. Geopolitical structure

Due to its existence in multiple places within the metaverse/multiverse, the Imperium may be organized into Dominions/Domains, which are organized into States. States are organized into Systems. Systems are organized into planets that are revolving around a star. Planets are organized into Continents, Regions, Counties, Cities, Wards, and Districts. The Emperor shall make or have made rules on the management of these structures. The Emperor may establish protectorates or special districts at any time. These protectorates shall exist outside of a Dominion but under the direct control of the Monarch.

Section 3. Imperial Dominions.

The Imperium may have at least nine (9) dominions led by the Monarch himself or he/she may grant stewardship of these to one of the Great Houses. In keeping with recent history, the following are the minimum dominions of the Imperium: Imperial States, Solace, Babylon, Gramos, Avalon, Acarecia, Mexia, Oria, Sangral, Maya, Thera, Lemuria, and Weredal and they are led by the Great Houses that correspond with them. These may change by Imperial Decree or vote of the Imperial Magnus. Each dominion shall be ruled by a High Regent. Each dominion will have authority over the geopolitical structures unless otherwise stated. The names and number of dominions may be amended at any time by decree in order to address growth, mergers, etc. Changing the number of dominions shall not have an effect on changing the Great Houses.

Section 4. Local Law and Security

Subsection A. Militias

The Imperium is overall responsible for the safety and security of Imperial Space. A Dominion may request to establish a militia, but if approved all members shall be reserve members of the Imperial Service.  The Imperial Service shall exercise training and readiness oversight of that militia and full control if that militia is called to active service.  

Subsection B. Police

Imperial Police shall have ultimate jurisdiction on any case.  However, if a local police force is authorized, the Imperial Police shall allow the local police to execute local laws.

Subsection C. Laws

Imperial Law is supreme throughout the Imperium.  However local governments shall have the right to make laws that solely affect that locality.  

Subsection D. Legislatures

Localities at every level shall establish a representative legislature consisting of individuals residing within their boundaries or declared in a census. They shall not make any laws that conflict with the Imperial Constitution, Imperial Charters, Imperial Decrees, Laws, and Prime Dictates. The laws passed in one State shall only have an effect in that State.

Section 5. Residency

All immigration is handled by the Imperial Administration. All Citizens shall be Citizens of the Aksum Imperium and complete the immigration process. Residency is established after Citizenship and is based on the declaration of the individual and local laws. Citizens may be Residents of more than one domain of the Imperium if they own property in the other domain. If that is the case, they shall have the same rights as the other Residents

Section 6. Diplomacy

All diplomacy is managed by the Imperial Government. No State can establish their own embassies or send their own ambassadors to other nations. However, the Imperial Government will support the States in their endeavors by sending representatives based on the States interests.

Section 7. Nobility

Regents of a subdivision can nominate individuals to be nobles and/or knights of the Imperium. The authority to establish Courts of Nobility or Knightly Orders shall be determined by Decree or Charter

Section 8. Courts

Dominions may establish a local judicial system to handle interpretation and adjudication of local laws.  Those courts shall be inferior to Imperial Tribunals.  An Imperial Tribunal of Appeals may be established to hear appeals from those courts.  A Dominion's supreme courts decisions may be heard by the Grand Imperial Tribunal.

ARTICLE X. RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS

Section 1. Freedom of Speech

No law shall exist abridging the freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression, including freedom of the press and other media of communication except in case of public order and decency. All citizens are responsible for their sentiments, and shall refrain from libelous and slanderous abuse.

Section 2. Freedom of Religion

The government shall not restrict free exercise of religion or conscience in worship or conduct, nor shall any preference be given to any religious establishment. Religious services and rituals not in conflict with law or public order are authorized. The government shall issue procedures for establishing religions in Aksum, by decree or statute.

Section 3. Freedom of Discrimination

No discrimination, shall exists within the Aksum Imperium on the grounds of race, color, sex, sexual preference, age, religion, beliefs, language, or any physical or societal parameters whatsoever, except as provided elsewhere in this Constitution.

Section 4. Freedom of Assembly

Citizens have the right to peaceful assembly whether in private facilities or in the open air, provided that such assembly neither disrupts traffic or legal commercial activity, unduly inconveniences people, or advocate the commission of a violation of Aksum Law. Citizens have the right to organize and register political parties and other organizations subject to the laws of the Imperium, and its own laws of membership.

Section 5. Search and Seizure

Citizens have the right to privacy and security in their persons, homes, papers, correspondence, and property, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated. No person may be arrested or detained without a warrant issued by a member of the judiciary, or in the case of the Imperial Service, a Commander, or the Emperor.

Section 6. Innocence Until Proven Guilty

Any person charged with an offense shall be presumed innocent until proven guilty, and has the right to request information on his legal rights. No accused person shall be denied due process, nor shall any citizen be compelled in any case to bear witness against himself.

Section 7. Right to Speedy Trial

In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury or tribunal of the Crown. The accused shall have the right to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation, to confront the witnesses against him, and to have subpoena power to obtain witnesses in his favor. The accused has the right of legal assistance.

Section 8. Marriage and Sexual Preferences

While upholding the sanctity of marriage, Aksum holds inviolable the rights of all consenting adult citizens to manage their own private sexual conduct. Marriage and sexual preference shall not be an issue of the state.

Section 9. Expulsion

Aksum citizenship, except where stated in this constitution, can only be lost by a citizen's voluntary renunciation of citizenship or as punishment for a crime determined by the Imperial Grand Tribunal based on decree and/or law.

Section 10. Enumeration

The enumeration of rights in this Constitution shall not be construed to deny or disparage other rights retained by the people. Powers not held by the Emperor, delegated to the government, to the courts, to the subdivisions, or to legal state organizations, are held by the People of the Imperium.

ARTICLE XI. STATUS OF THE CONSTITUTION

The Imperial Constitution is the Supreme Law of the Land. Following in precedence are Imperial Decrees, Imperial Laws, Imperial Edicts, Imperial Dictates, Directives, Ordinances, Regulations, Policies, and Orders.

Any rights, authorities, or powers not mentioned here is granted to the Dominions and the people and subject to Imperial Law or Decrees.

ARTICLE XII. AMENDMENTS

Section 1. Procedure

Amendments to this constitution must be submitted to the legislature by petition from any Citizen who shall vote by ⅔ to determine if the amendment should be accepted or denied. If approved the amendment shall require a ⅔ vote of an Imperial Magnus and the Emperor’s assent to pass. The Emperor may call a conclave of the Imperial Court to review the Constitution at any time and may call an Imperial Plebiscite (everyone votes) to consider any changes.

Section 2. In Lieu of Assembly

In case the Legislature is not in Session, the Emperor shall determine the procedures of amendments.

ARTICLE XIII. AUTHENTICATION

BY STRENGTH AND COURAGE, and IN WITNESS WHEREOF, with the Imperial Seal affixed, as amended, We have signed with Our Hand.  Given at the Imperial Mangus the 21st  day of June,  in this the 7th Imperium, in the Imperial Year of Fourteen.

Rasim Aeon, Emperor and Grand Sovereign of the Imperium

return to: |The Imperial Code| Main Page