THE IMPERIAL CHARTER OF THE AKSUM IMPERIUM

ARTICLE I. PREAMBLE

We the Residents and Leaders of the Aksum Imperium, come together, to form a perfect union, advance the goals of the Imperium, and live peacefully, do hereby establish this Imperial Charter under the framework of the Imperial Constitution.

ARTICLE II. CHARTER PRECEDENCE

Section 1.

This Charter is subordinate to the Imperial Constitution and is included as part of the supreme laws of the Aksum Imperium and all of its holdings and possessions that exist under its banner and protection. All laws must conform to the Imperial Constitution, then the Imperial Charter, then Imperial Decrees.

Section 2

Any decree, law, edict, measure, policy, tradition or rule in existence prior to the promulgation of this Charter that is inconsistent with this Charter ceases to have effect to the extent of the inconsistency.

Section 3.

Upon the promulgation of this Charter, Imperial Law shall include decrees issued by the monarch, edicts issued by authorized individuals, laws adopted by the legislature, decisions by the judiciary, and orders or policy issued by the imperial forces.

ARTICLE III: 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 Charter. Children born to Aksum Citizens must still apply and be sponsored by parents.

Section B. Majority

To immigrate to the Imperium a person must be registered at the location known as the Forums 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 kingdom/state/province of the same, unless applying to be a Citizen. However an Immigrant, or Citizen may only be a resident of one Kingdom/state.

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 Aksum 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.
Participation on the Imperial Forum at least once a month

Section I. Citizenship

Subsection 1.

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

Level I: Immigrant - must complete requirements in Section 8 of this Article.
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
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
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.
Level V: Knight - All the above, leases land to a Full Citizens or Citizens, can serve in any capacity not requiring nobility
Level VI: Nobility - All the above, holds any size land, can serve in any capacity
Level VII: Royalty/High Nobility - All the above, leads a sovereign house, or is in the Imperial Family

B. The Emperor may suspend any part of this without notice and by decree.

Subsection 2

Imperial law 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 Knights may become nobility.

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

Article IV: The Imperial Court

Section A. Establishment.

The Imperial Court of Aksum is the full governance of the Imperium, exercising the Executive, Legislative, Judicial, and Martial authority of the Sovereign.

Section B. Membership

Membership in the Imperial Court consists of the Imperial Family, Council of Archons, Privy Council, Grand Officers of State, Imperial Chancellors, Imperial Legislators, Imperial Magistrates, Imperial Viceroys and Heralds, Nobility, Citizens in the rank of Minister and higher, and Flag/Senior Officers of the Imperial Service. All members of the Imperial Court shall, prior to taking office, swear the oath of office and complete the necessary documents as determined by Imperial Law.

Section C. Officers of the Imperial Court

The Officers of the Imperial Court consists, at the minimum of, the Sovereign, Grand Viceroy, Grand Chancellor, Grand Marshal, Grand Magistrate, Grand Chamberlain, Grand Prelate, Grand Inquisitor General, 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 Council of the Imperial Court.

Section D. The Grand Council.

The Grand Council shall consist of the Officers listed in Section C of this Article and the leader of each council of the Imperial Court. It shall be the highest governing body between meetings of the Magnus and shall provide advice to the Sovereign. It shall meet at least once a quarter or at the call of the Sovereign or Grand Viceroy.

Section E. Councils of the Imperial Court

Subsection 1. General.

A. Establishment

To conduct the business of the Imperium, the Imperial Court shall be made up of Imperial Councils. In addition to the Grand Council, there shall at a minimum be the following Imperial Councils: Council of the Privy, Council of Archons, Council of Viceroys, Council of Deliberation, Council of State, Council of Magistrates, Council of the Orders, Council of Security, Council of Planning. The Sovereign may establish additional Councils in the Imperial Court by decree. Laws or policies adopted by any Council can not interfere with an Imperial Prerogative unless granted or delegated by the Sovereign. All laws adopted are binding upon the entire Imperium, and shall be published in the Imperial Code.

B. Membership.

Membership in each Council shall be determined by this Charter, Decree, or Imperial Law. The Sovereign is a member of each Council and may preside when he chooses.

C. Powers

In addition to what is stated elsewhere in this Charter, each Council: 1)May introduce and recommend the voidance of an Imperial Decree, Dictate, or Edict within one month of its publishing, said resolution must pass by a ¾ vote, and it must be considered by two other Councils, one of which being the Council of the Deliberation; 2)May introduce any act to be considered as law except those levying a tax; 3) May discipline its own members; 4) and any other power granted by this Charter or Imperial Decree

D. Rules of Procedure

All Councils of the Imperial Court shall use Robert’s Rules of Order (newly revised version) for the conduct of their meetings. A Council may establish additional Standing Rules to handle business specific to its duties and authority. All council standing rules are subordinate to the rules of the Grand Council and the Council under which it falls.

E. Subpoena power

Any Council may subpoena a Chancellor or Minister of the Imperial Court to answer questions for the conduct of its business. Members of the Imperial Family, Imperial Chambers, Imperial Service, and the Imperial Judiciary are subject to the approval of the Crown, unless allowed by decree.

F. Reservation

All matters not addressed in this Charter may be addressed by Imperial Decree or an Imperial Act.

G. Oaths

All members of the Imperial Court shall be sworn in by reciting the following Oath of Office: “I, (name), will faithfully execute the office of His Imperial Majesty's (office) of the Aksum Imperium, I pledge my loyalty and fealty to the Sovereign 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; 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 Sovereign and the Imperium!!

Subsection 2. Imperial Council of the Privy

A. Establishment.

An Imperial Privy Council is established to assist the Sovereign with his duties, providing advice on any topic

B. Membership

The Sovereign by decree shall appoint an Imperial Privy Council which shall consist of a minimum of three (3) Citizens. The Sovereign designates which officer he/she sees fit to serve on the Council.

C. Vacancies

Vacancies on this council will be filled by the Sovereign’s decree.

D. Officers

The Sovereign will designate the officers of this Council by decree.

E. Disbandment

The Sovereign may disband this Council and appoint a new one at any time.

F. Powers

The Privy Council shall have the power to assume any function of the Imperial Court when the Council managing that function is inactive. It may review all laws passed and signed by the Grand Chancellor prior to gaining Imperial Assent. Settle disputes between Councils and Branches of Government. Make regular recommendations to the Sovereign on anything covering the life of the Imperium.

Subsection 3. Imperial Council of Archons

A. Establishment.

The leaders of the thirteen (13) Great Houses of the Imperium shall make up the Council of Archons.

B. Membership

Membership in the Council of Archons is reserved for the heads of the thirteen (13) Great or Sovereign Houses of the Imperium. The Imperial House of Aksum has the first and permanent seat on this Council. The Sovereign shall issue a decree naming the houses to be members. The Imperial Magnus, and sitting members of this Council may nominate a house to become Sovereign; however, there will only be thirteen (13). The ruling house will always use Imperial in its name, i.e.. The Sovereign and Imperial House of Aksum. All others shall be the Great House of (___). The leaders of each Great House shall hold the title of Archon

C. Vacancies

Vacancies on this council will be determined by the governing council of that house. A ⅔ vote of the Imperial Magnus may remove a Great House from the Council of Archons.

D. Officers

The Chair of this Council shall be known as the Grand Archon. A Vice Grand Archon serves in the absence of the Grand Archon within this Council.

E. Disbandment

This Council may only be disbanded on the declaration of Martial Law and establishment of a new Imperium.

F. Powers

The duties and powers of this Council shall be granted by decree, this Charter 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, the Grand Archon. The Chair of the previously existing Council of Sovereigns shall serve as the Grand Archon until the next Imperial Magnus. 3)Oversee the established Houses and vote whether to recommend new houses. 4) Perform any duties by decree or directive issued by the Sovereign. 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 Sovereign.

Subsection 4. Imperial Council of Viceroys

A. Establishment.

The Council of Viceroys is established to serve as the body to discuss and make coordination amongst those appointed as Viceroys.

B. Membership

Membership consists of the Sovereign, the Grand Viceroy, Grand Chancellor, Grand Marshal, Grand Stewart, and the Viceroys of the segments or systems appointed by the Sovereign as his/her representative.

C. Vacancies

The Grand Viceroy or Grand Chancellor shall nominate individuals to fill vacancies on this Council.

D. Officers.

The Grand Viceroy chairs this council in the absence of the Sovereign. Officers and levels of Viceroys are determined by decree

E. Disbandment.

The Sovereign may disband the Council by decree for: 1) failure to act; or 2)violating Imperial Law. Members serve at the pleasure of the Sovereign.

F. Powers.

In addition to any authority granted by Imperial Decree or Law, or elsewhere stated in this Charter, this Council has the responsibility to consider any actions proposed by the Imperial Council of Systems, make recommendations for territorial additions, and others that may be brought before it to be considered.

Subsection 5. Imperial Council of Security and Defense

A. Establishment.

The Security Council is established to provide advice on defense, security, and foreign relations of the Imperium.

B. Membership

Membership to this Council is determined by Imperial Decree.

C. Vacancies

Vacancies on this Council are filled by Imperial Decree.

D. Officers

The Officers of this Council are determined by Imperial Decree.

E. Disbandment

This Council may only be disbanded by Imperial Decree.

F. Powers.

The Imperial Security Council: 1) has the sole authority to advise the Sovereign on matters of Defense and Security 2) May recommend policies affecting the Imperial Service, Diplomacy, and Enforcement of Laws.

Subsection 6. Imperial Council of State

A. Establishment.

The day-to-day Executive Authority of the Sovereign is vested with the Council of State also referred as the Imperial Executive, or the Government.

B. Membership

The Grand Chancellor shall form this Council with the advice and consent of the Council of Deliberation and as stated in this Charter, Decree, and Law. Additional members may be added by decree or act. The Grand Chancellor shall ensure at a minimum that justice, treasury, social services, internal matters, are covered with his/her appointments.

C. Vacancies

When a vacancy occurs on this Council the Grand Chancellor shall appoint a replacement subject to the advice and consent of the appropriate Council.

D. Officers

The Grand Chancellor shall Chair this Council with the assistance of the Vice Grand Chancellor. Additional officers may be established by decree or law.

E. 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 or disband the Council of Deliberation.

F. Powers

The Council of State 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 Chancellor may issue Prime Dictates to determine how a decree or act/law is executed.

G. The Grand Chancellor

The Grand Chancellor is the nominal chair of the Council of State on behalf of the Sovereign. He/she shall appoint the officers of the Imperial Government within the authority granted under the Imperial Charter, Imperial Decree, and Imperial Law. Unless retained by the Sovereign, the Grand Chancellor is considered the Head of Government.
The Grand Chancellor is considered a Great Officer of State.
The Grand Chancellor, by virtue of office, is one of the Chief Hands of the Sovereign and ensures His will, the Imperial Charter, and the laws of the Imperium, are executed.
The Grand Chancellor issues binding imperial decrees in the name of the Sovereign, and Imperial Dictates and Edicts on all matters within the competence of the position.
The selection for Grand Chancellor shall be determined by Imperial Decree or Imperial Law.
The term of the Grand Chancellor is three years or lasts until the Grand Chancellor’s incapacity, resignation or removal, whichever is soonest.
Upon the Grand Chancellor’s incapacity death, resignation or removal, the Deputy Grand Chancellor shall lead the government until a new one is confirmed.
Should the Grand Chancellor’s term expire and a new one not elected or appointed, the incumbent shall continue in the office until a new one is confirmed.
The Grand Chancellor acts as Grand Viceroy in the incumbents absence

H. Vice Grand Chancellor

The Vice Grand Chancellor is nominated by the Grand Chancellor or when not done, nominated by the Council of Deliberation. In either case the Vice Grand Chancellor is elected by the Council of Deliberation.
Vice Grand Chancellor is considered a Great Officer of State.
The Vice Grand Chancellor executes the duties of the Grand Chancellor in his/her absence unless the position is declared vacant by decree, resignation, removal, or death. In those cases the Vice Grand Chancellor will serve in that role until a new Grand Chancellor is selected.

I Legislative competence

The Grand Chancellor may issue imperial edicts or prime dictates with applicability to the territorial jurisdictions and systems and also in regards to those functions of government for the Imperium as delegate, including: Foreign Policy, Immigration and Citizenship, Currency, Elections, Contracts Execution and enforcement of Imperial Law in Imperial States and Systems.
The Grand Chancellor may submit bills to be considered by any Legislative Conclave. He/she may also submit bills to be considered directly by the Sovereign, however must resign if the Sovereign refuses, declines, or disapproves the bill.

Subsection 7. Imperial Council of Magistrates

A. Establishment.

The Council of Magistrates is established as the lead council for the management and oversight of the Imperial Judiciary.

B. General

The judicial power of the Sovereign and the Imperium is vested in the Imperial Grand Tribunal and its subordinate courts of law. Imperial Law may establish courts of law within the Imperial Systems, States, and Protectorates. The Imperial Grand Tribunal forms the court of final appeal for the Imperium. Individuals may petition the Sovereign to appeal its decision only if the vote is not unanimous.

C. Membership

The Sovereign appoints the members of the Council of Magistrates on the recommendation of the Grand Chancellor. There shall be a minimum of five and not more than nine members on this Council. The Sovereign may sit at any time with this Council. One each of four magistrates shall serve as the Chief Justice of the Courts of the High Kingdoms and the Chief Magistrate of the Imperial Tribunals in that Quadrant.

D. Vacancies

Vacancies on this Council are replaced by Imperial Decree.

E. 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 Council of Archons and Privy Council; chairs and sets procedure; 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. The Grand Magistrate oversees the offices that support the Imperial Judiciary.

F. 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.

G. Powers

The Council of Magistrates has general supervision and oversight authority of the Imperial Tribunal and the lesser courts. It has the power to disbar any lawyer or jurist in the Imperium. When the Sovereign is in session with this Council, it serves as the last appeal for any case coming before any court in the Imperium. When the Sovereign is not in session, a unanimous vote is required for it to be the last appeal, all other results may be appealed to the Sovereign.

H. Interpretation of the Constitution and Charter

The Council of Magistrates interprets the Constitution and Charter and when solicited determines if laws are in accordance or in violation.
Should the Imperial Grand Tribunal find that a law, measure, ordinance, edict, rule, policy, order, etc, is inconsistent with the Charter, it shall declare such an item as such and the item shall cease to be lawful or executed.
If a court discovers unclear or confusing language in the Charter, Decrees, or in any law, the court may as part of its written decision call upon the Council of Deliberation, or if relevant, the System or Provincial legislature to revise the law. Until such confusion is resolved, the court shall rule according to the most just and equitable understanding of the law, according to the plain meaning of the words, or if such words have acquired a technical meaning at law, according to the technical meaning.

I. Lessor Courts.

Each System shall have as its highest court to handle appeals from circuit and local tribunals, a System Tribunal. One of the sitting Magistrates on the Imperial Grand Tribunal may serve as Chief Justice. Each System Tribunal shall include a Chief Justice and at least two other Justices and no more than nine total justices.
There shall be Imperial Circuit Tribunals that cover areas of a system. Each Tribunal shall consist of a Chief Judge and no less than two and no more than seven additional judges. Circuit Tribunals are courts of first instance for Imperial Law.
No member of the Imperial Service may serve on the Imperial Grand Tribunal or its lessor courts, while still on active status except the Imperial Service Appeals Tribunal.

H. Military Appeals

An Imperial Service Appeals Tribunal shall be established to hear appeals from the Imperial Service.
The Imperial Grand Tribunal may decide by unanimous vote to hear appeals from the Imperial Service Appeals Tribunal.
There shall be a Chief Judge of the Imperial Service to oversee the Imperial Service Judiciary. This person can be an active, reserve, or retired member of the Imperial Service. There shall be at least three members on the I.S.A.T. but no more than nine.
The Chief Judge of the Imperial Service is nominated by the Judge Advocate General of the Imperial Service and appointed by the Grand Marshal of the Imperium and must meet the minimum requirements to be a jurist as determined by the Barristers Council.

I. Decisions

Where there is an exact precedent, a court shall rule according to law. Where there is no exact precedent, a court will make a rule to fit the case, either by reinterpreting an old rule or by applying what it considers principles of justice consistent with the Constitution and this Charter. The courts shall render their decisions with due regard to the original intent of any law being clarified, as defined by the law's author(s). In the event of a difference in interpretation as to the meaning of a law, the court shall render an official interpretation with full respect to the Constitution and the Charter. A decision by the Imperial Tribunal not made unanimous may be appealed to the Sovereign.
Court decisions (and dissents) will be written up in the forums with due regard to brevity.

J. Consent to Hear

The Imperial Tribunal shall consent to hear no case until presented with written evidence by the Prosecution proving to a majority of court members that a reasonable chance of obtaining a conviction exists. The courts, by majority vote, may refuse to hear any case, in effect confirming the defendant's (or status quo) position. A court must supply any plaintiff whose case it refuses to hear a written justification of such refusal.
A case heard by a local court/tribunal may also be heard by a Circuit Tribunal provided that the focus separates whether its focus is Imperial Law or local law.

K. Conflict of Interest

If a magistrate, Judge or Justice is a party in a court case, he/shall exempt himself from the bench for the duration of the case, and nominate a temporary replacement, who will be approved by the other judges or Justices of the court.
A question of conflict may be presented and must be disposed of prior to the beginning of any trial or case.

L. Scope.

The jurisdiction of the Imperial Grand Tribunal extends every and to everyone subject to this Charter. Any person subject to this Charter may petition for relief or adjudication. Diplomats may submit cases on behalf of their nations. The Tribunals shall inflict such punishment as the law provides or in absence, as it deems appropriate.

M. Powers.

The courts shall have power to enforce penalties against violators, commensurate with the severity of the crime. The Tribunal may in certain extreme circumstances impose the penalty of expulsion from the Imperium, by a unanimous vote. Sentences may only be overturned by Imperial Pardon. Subpoenas issued by the Grand Tribunal shall be enforced by the Imperial Guard or Imperial Police

N. Injunctions.

Any judge or justice may issue court orders or injunctions according to the generally accepted principles of the law. These injunctions may order a party to perform his legal duty, or may prevent the enforcement of a law which may be Inorganic. Violation of an injunction is treated as contempt of court. The final arbiter of the organicity of injunctions is the Imperial Grand Tribunal.

O. Imperial Barrister Council

The Council serves as the certifying body for Inquisitors, Advocates, and Solicitors.
The Grand Magistrate is the nominal chair, but may appoint another member of the Council of Magistrates as the Chair.
This Council shall approve curriculum offered in any Imperial Education Institute related to teaching the practice of Imperial Law.
The IBC sets the minimum standards for position within the Imperial Judiciary and among its officers and members, including the Inquisition and the Imperial Service Judge Advocate Corps.

P. The Imperial Inquisition

The Imperial Inquisition operates within both the Judiciary and Executive Branch.
The Grand Inquisitor General is a member of the Council of State and the Imperial Barristers Council and oversees the execution and advocacy of law. This individual shall serve as the Vice Chair of the Barristers Council.
The Grand Chancellor in consultation with the Grand Magistrate shall submit to the Imperial Council of Deliberation, the formal organization of the Imperial Inquisition. At a minimum there shall be the Grand Inquisitor General as the lead individual and manager; a Chief Inquisitor General to oversee compliance and accountability within the Imperial Court; an Attorney General to oversee prosecution; an Advocate General to oversee the execution of non-criminal cases; a Solicitor General to oversee execution of cases related to the Charter, Treaties and Foreign Parties.
The Imperial Inquisition works with the Imperial Police in conducting investigations within the Imperium. Exact policies and procedures shall be spelled out in edict, policy, or orders.
Imperial Inquisitors shall be appointed in each system assisted by Assistant Imperial Inquisitors. They shall be organized as determined by the law, the Grand Chancellor, or Grand Inquisitor General.
The Imperial Inquisition, acting through one of its principal officers or Imperial Inquisitors, has exclusive power to bring suit for criminal conviction in the Imperial Grand Tribunal or any of the bodies of the Imperial Judiciary, except those judicial bodies assigned or under the Imperial Service. The Imperial Service Regulations and Directives shall dictate the individuals with this responsibility.

Subsection 8. Imperial Council of Deliberation

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.

B. Membership

The Sovereign, Grand Viceroy, Grand Chancellor and Grand Steward are ex-officio members of the Council of Deliberation but are not included in the count for a quorum. Imperial States shall elect one Senator for every 9 residents based on the Spring Census. The Council shall not exceed 99 elected members. Seats shall be apportioned as needed. Term for Senators shall be two years. Political affiliation will not be the basis of membership or position. Imperial Senators may not serve on any other legislature unless the Imperial Charter, a Quadrant Charter, or Royal Charter permits it. Imperial Senators may not serve in the Council of State or the Council of Justice.

C. Officers.

The Officers of the Council of Deliberation are the Grand Praetor, who is elected by the full Council of Deliberation; Vice Grand Praetor who is elected by the full Council; an Executive Secretary of the Council, who is appointed by the Grand Praetor and approved by the Executive Council, 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 Council.

D. Executive Council

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

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.

F. Vacancies.

Vacancies on this council will be filled by either a special election or an appointment by the Archon of that Imperial State. A petition signed by seven (7) Citizens may force a special election.

G. Council of Systems.

The Grand Chancellor may request that the Sovereign disband the Council. If the Council is disbanded, the Sovereign may relieve the Grand Chancellor of his/her duty, or direct a vote of confidence/no confidence. The Sovereign 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

H. Powers

In addition to any authority granted by Imperial Decree or Law, or elsewhere stated in this Charter, the Imperial Council of Deliberation: 1) Considers whether to approve the appointments of the Grand Chancellors. 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 Chance.

I. Quadrants and States

All Quadrant and State legislatures shall be unicameral and Archons may determine how legislatures are established within their States.

Subsection 9. Imperial Council of Nobles

A. Establishment.

This Council is established to handle matters of the Nobility not within the Imperial Prerogatives, and when authorized by Decree.

B. Membership

The size, membership, and titles of the nobility and this Council is determined by Imperial Decree. All nobles holding land are eligible to be appointed/elected to this Council. A noble holding a seat in another council may appoint another eligible person to be a proxy.

C. Vacancies

Vacancies of this Council are determined by decree.

D. Officers

The Grand Chamberlain of the Imperium serves as Chair of this Council unless otherwise stated in Decree

E. Disbandment

The Sovereign may disband this Council by decree.

F. Powers

Except where elsewhere stated the Council of Nobles: 1) Reviews disputes among nobility; 2) When allowed by decree, pass laws involving the nobility; 3) Along with the Council of Deliberation and Council of Magistrates, considers Judicial appointments made by the Grand Chancellor; 4)The Council of Nobles can only determine whether to remove a noble from its membership based on violation of Protocol, Law, or behavior.

Subsection 11. Imperial Council of Prelates

A. Establishment.

A Council is established to provide a point of collaboration for ecclesiastic, spiritual, and supernatural matters. This council by decree forms the governing body of the Universal Church of Aksum.

B. Membership

Membership in this Council includes Sovereign and the leaders of all the recognized religions, sects, belief systems, and ideology based groups in the Imperium. There is no limit to the number of members that can serve. However individuals must be officially recognized through a process determined by law or decree.

C. Vacancies

Vacancies are filled by the recognized organization replacing its representative.

D. Officers

This Council shall nominate to the Sovereign one of its own to serve as the Grand Prelate of the Imperium. The Sovereign may accept or designate another. While the Grand Prelate is in said role, the group he/she represents is authorized another representative. The Grand Prelate must represent the full group.

E. Disbandment

This Council is automatically disbanded should Martial Law or a new Imperium be declared.

F. Powers

This Council shall have the power to consider any ecclesiastic, spiritual or supernatural, prior to it becoming law. It may recommend legislation or rules to be considered as law. It may not force a belief system on any person in the Imperium. The Council may come together to form an overarching organization subject to the Sovereign’s approval. This Council has the power to review and recommend to the Grand Chancellor the approval of any new organization that falls within its scope. The Council may disband a group that is considered a threat to the Imperium, as confirmed by the Imperial Security Council.

Subsection 11. Imperial Council of the Clans

A. Establishment

This Council is established to be a first court of instance in all disputes between clans; review requests to become clans, and deliberate issues related to clans and families.

B. Membership

Membership of this Council consists of the leader of a clan or a designated proxy and the Grand Steward or representative as ex-officio. The clan leader must notify the Grand Steward, Grand Praetor, and the Chair of this Council the appointed proxy. The proxy may not be a member of another legislative council.

C. Vacancies

Vacancies are filled in a matter determined internally by the clan affected. Disbanded clans are not considered vacancies.

D. Officers

The Grand Steward shall chair this council and the membership will elect a 1st and 2nd Vice Chair.

E. Disbandment

This Council is automatically disbanded should Martial Law or a new Imperium be declared.

F. Powers

This council shall have the power to sit as a court of first instance to deal with disputes between clans; review decrees and policies related to clans; consider and make recommendations for the establishment of new clans; and subpoena the ministries on matters related to clans.

Subsection 9. Imperial Council of the Orders

A. Establishment.

This Council is established to govern the Orders of Knighthood.

B. Membership

The leaders of each Order of Knighthood recognized in the Imperium is a member of this Council.

C. Vacancies

Vacancies on this Council are filled by Imperial decree.

D. Officers

The Sovereign is the Supreme Grand Master of the Orders of the Imperium; however he may appoint a Grand Seneschal to oversee and chair in his absence.

E. Disbandment

This Council may be disbanded by Imperial Decree.

F. Powers

Except and in addition to whatever else is stated in this Charter, the Council of the Orders: 1) Exercise general control of the Orders of Knighthood; 2) Review all petitions to establish new orders not directed by the Sovereign; 3)Perform any other duties as directed by the Sovereign.

Subsection 10. Imperial Planning Council

A. Establishment.

An Imperial Planning Council is established to plan the growth and development of the Imperium and consider the theme and make up of the various areas of the Imperium.

B. Membership

Membership on this Council is determined by Decree. Appointments to this Council by the Grand Chancellor are subject to the approval of the Council of Deliberation

C. Vacancies

Vacancies on this council are filled by nomination of the Grand Chancellor.

D. Officers

The Grand Architect shall serve as the Chair of this Council. Additional Officers are appointed as needed by decree, act, dictate or a resolution of this Council

E. Disbandment

This Council may be disbanded by Imperial Decree or Act.

F. Powers

This Council has the power to plan any action that promotes the growth and development of the Imperium. Its decisions must be ratified by the Council of State and if a new law is required, must be considered by the Council of Deliberation..

Subsection 11. The Nobility.

A. Authority

The Sovereign of the Imperium has the sole authority to determine the size and composition of the Imperial Nobility.

B. Titles

The highest title of the nobility is that of Emperor. Said title shall not be used on any document or in address unless it has been determined by decree, legislative act, or decision of the Magnus, that the Imperium has reached its minimum level to have an Emperor. Previous documents containing the title shall not be changed and unless stated elsewhere in this Charter, shall still hold credence.

C. Eligibility

Only Citizens who have entered a recognized order of Knighthood are eligible to be nobles.

D. College of Heraldry

A manual of arms shall be maintained with the heraldry, protocols, and roster of the nobility.

Subsection 12. The Imperial Civil Service.

A. Establishment

The Imperial Civil Service is the organization that makes up the non-defense and security positions within the Imperial Court.

B. Membership

A Commoner may be a member or hold a position within the Imperial Civil Service. However, they must become Citizens before being granted a manager position.

C. Membership in the Court

Members of the Imperial Civil Service are not automatically members of the Imperial Court. Except where stated in this Charter, Imperial Law will determine the path of Citizenship through the Imperial Civil Service.

D. Service in the Imperial Service

Members of the Imperial Civil Service may be called to service within the Imperial Service during times of war and insurrection, and only on the decree of the Sovereign.

Article V: The Imperial Service

Section A: Definition

The Imperial Service includes all the organizations that by Imperial Decree are deemed necessary for the Peace, Defense, and Security of the Imperium. The Imperial Service is a descendent of the original Imperial Guard which outdates the Imperium itself.

Section B. Duties

It is the responsibility of the Imperial Service to Serve, Protect, and Defend the Imperium and the Sovereign against all enemies foreign and domestic; to fight and win the Imperium wars; to organize to maintain the peace; to train its members to properly carry out its duties; to investigate violations of law.

Section C. Restrictions.

The Imperial Service shall maintain an organization that deals specifically with civilian violations of law. This organization is the lead organization to investigate, apprehend, and enforce civilian laws. A member of the Imperial Service may not serve in the Imperial Judiciary. Imperial Law may dictate any other limitations or restrictions. Members of the Imperial Service are not required to answer subpoenas of the Imperial Court unless directed or authorized by the Sovereign.

Section D. Imperial Command Authority

Imperial Command Authority consists of the Sovereign as Supreme Commander, and the Grand Marshal of the Imperium. Orders and directives issued by the Sovereign are considered law. The Grand Marshal of the Imperium may issue orders, publish regulations and policies that explain the execution of an Imperial Order or Directive. The Grand Marshal provides a representative to the Council of State, and Chairs the Council of Security and Defense.

Section E. Deployment outside of Imperial Territory

Only the Supreme Commander may authorize the deployment of Imperial Service assets outside of the Imperium.

Section F. Declaration of War

The Sovereign in consultation with the Imperial Court may declare war. However, no consultation is needed if the declaration is a result of a direct attack on Imperial Land.

Section G. Forces

The Imperial Service shall have at a minimum a Land Force, Naval Force, the Imperial Guard, and Imperial Police. A decree shall be published directing any additional forces and providing for the establishment of an organizational structure. The Imperial Guard may exercise the authority or duties of any of the other forces including the Imperial Police.

Section H. Ranks

Imperial Decree shall dictate the ranks of the Imperial Service. There shall at a minimum be Officer and Enlisted ranks.

Article VI: Territorial Organization of the Imperium

Section A: Definition

The Imperium consists of its various systems and the domains and states that exist in each system; and the forums, chat rooms, sites etc, as determined by Imperial Law. The Imperium is responsible for the defense, security, foreign affairs, immigration, and administration

Section B: Geopolitical Structure

Imperial Law and decrees establishes and disestablishes segments systems and other areas; provides for the government of these systems; and is extended and enforced in these areas.

Section C: Imperial Domains and States

Subsection1: Status.

The status of each domain or state is determined by the title of each leader, the population, and whether it is the personal domain of the Sovereign. The status shall be determined by Imperial Law. The Sovereign has the sole right to establish and disestablish subdivisions of the Aksum Imperium; and may decree additional rules beyond this article.

Subsection 2: Borders

Each domain and state may exist solely within one system. However a house may hold the title in more than one system.

Subsection 3: Local Law and security

The Imperium is overall responsible for the safety and security of the entire dominion. A local government 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.
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.
Imperial Law is supreme throughout the Imperium. However local governments shall have the right to make laws that solely affect that system or locality.
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 Charter, Imperial Decrees, Laws, and Prime Dictates. The laws passed in one State shall only have an effect in that State.

Article VII. Final Provisions

Section A. Supremacy

This Charter is the second supreme law of the land. Preceded by the Imperial Constitution, and followed in precedence are Imperial Decrees, Laws, Edicts, Dictates, policies and regulations and orders.

Section B. Ratification

This Charter shall be ratified by Imperial Decree. All subsequent changes shall be addressed in this article.

Section C. Amendment procedures

Subsection 1. Procedure

All amendments to this Charter may be submitted by anyone or initiated in any sub-council of the Imperial Legislature. It shall then be considered by the full legislature. A ⅔ vote of the full legislature is required for approval. The Sovereign may amend or direct amendments to the Charter while the legislature is in recess. The legislature may accept by taking no action or consider the changes.

Subsection 2. Approval

If the amendment is approved by the legislature, it will be reviewed by the Council of Magistrates to ensure no conflicts with the Constitution. The Sovereign will either approve or call a Magnus for full deliberation. A ⅔ vote of the Magnus is required for passage if presented.

Subsection 3. In Lieu of Assembly

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

Subsection 4: Transitory Provisions

All appointments and offices held immediately before the promulgation of this Charter remain in force under this Charter unless otherwise stated by decree.

Article VIII. 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 Thirteen.

Rasim Aeon, Emperor and Sovereign of the Imperium