2024 Constitution Draft v3 [Constitutional Monarchy]

Preamble

We, the citizen nations of the Rhineland, in order to establish a just and equitable governance, promote the welfare of our citizens, safeguard their rights and freedoms, and ensure the unity and prosperity of our region, do hereby establish this Constitution of the Rhineland. This will also mark the adoption of the unofficial name of the Frontier, The Federal Republic of the Rhenish-Commonwealth.

Chapter I: The Monarchy

Article 1: The Monarch

1. The Monarch of the Commonwealth shall serve as the ceremonial head of state, symbolizing the unity and continuity of the nation.
2. The Monarch's powers shall be defined and limited by this Constitution and other laws enacted by the legislature.
3. The Monarch shall act in accordance with the advice of the Chancellor and the Cabinet and shall refrain from interfering in the political affairs of the state.
4. The Monarch shall perform ceremonial duties as prescribed by law and shall represent the nation domestically and internationally.

Article 2: Succession

1. The succession to the throne shall be governed by laws enacted by the legislature, ensuring a smooth transition of power.
2. The appointed successor of the reigning Monarch shall be the heir to the throne, with provisions for regency in case of minority or incapacity.

Chapter II: Fundamental Rights and Freedoms

Article 3: Rights of the Citizenry

Sec. 1
The right of freedom of speech is granted to every citizen, and may not be suppressed unless there is a clear and present danger to the People or Democratic Government of the Rhine.

Sec. 2
The right of freedom of press is granted to every citizen, and may not be suppressed unless there is a clear and present danger to the People or Democratic Government of the Rhine.

Sec. 3
The right of freedom of religion is granted to every citizen, but any religion actively promoting extremist, racist, or genocidal rhetoric will not be allowed to be openly practiced or preached in the rmb and may face ban from practice.

Sec. 4
The right to petition the Government for a redress of grievances is granted to every citizen.

Sec. 5
The right to peacefully assemble in the rmb, telegram, and external sites is granted to every citizen, and may not be suppressed unless there is a clear and present danger to the People or Democratic Government of the Rhine.

Sec. 6
The right to not be held to answer for a crime unless on a presentment or indictment of the Judicial District. As well as protection from self-incrimination without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation., and protection from double jeopardy.

Sec. 7
The right of the accused in criminal prosecutions to a impartial, speedy, and public trial by the Judicial District, who is to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in their favor, and to have the assistance of counsel for his defense.

Sec. 8
The right by trial in the Judicial District publically shall be preserved, and shall never be suppressed in any situation ever.

Sec. 9
The right to protect the accused from the Judges overruling proven facts/evidence revealed by witnesses.

Chapter III: Federal Congress of the Republic

Article 4: Federal Congress

Section 1: Introduction
The Federal Congress, often referred to as the Chamber of Deputies, plays a pivotal role in the legislative process, embodying the voice of the people in the Rhenish-Commonwealth government. Designed to provide stability, expertise, and a deliberative role in the law-making process

Section 2: Representation
The primary function of the lower house is to represent the diverse interests and concerns of the regional population. Members of the Chamber of Deputies are elected based on skill, knowledge, and responsibility, ensuring that the Republic and its population is adequately reflected in legislation and on the world stage. The Chamber of Deputies can only have a maximum number of 15 Deputies serving at one time. Elections for the Chamber will take place every 4 months on the 23rd. This structure upholds the principle of federalism, allowing both small and large nations to have a voice in the legislative process.

Section 3: Advise and Consent
One of the primary functions of the Chamber of Deputies is to provide advice and consent on key Executive Council appointments, including federal judges, ambassadors, and cabinet members. This process serves as a crucial check on the Executive Council, ensuring qualified and capable individuals are entrusted with significant responsibilities.

Section 4: Treaty Ratification
The Chamber of Deputies holds the authority to ratify international treaties negotiated by the Executive Council. This role ensures a collaborative approach in shaping foreign policy, as the upper house carefully reviews and approves agreements that impact the regions's relationships with other regions.

Section 5: Confirming Judicial Nominations
In addition to advising on judicial appointments, the Chamber of Deputies has the responsibility to confirm nominations for federal judges, including Supreme Judge of the Republic. This confirmation process allows for a thorough examination of the nominee's qualifications and ensures a balanced and independent judiciary.

Section 6: Legislative Initiatives
The lower house holds the power to initiate and draft legislation. Members propose bills and resolutions to address various issues affecting the region, covering matters such as taxation, budget allocation, and social policies.

Section 7: Legislative Review and Amendment
The Chamber of Deputies, engages in the legislative process by reviewing and amending bills. This deliberative role fosters careful consideration and often leads to compromises that address the diverse needs and perspectives of the nations.

Section 8: Checks and Balances
The Chamber of Deputies serves as a crucial check on the Executive Council by overseeing the implementation of laws and policies. Through its committees and investigative powers, the lower house ensures accountability and transparency in government actions.

Section 9: Filibuster and Extended Debate
The Chamber of Deputies is characterized by its tradition of extended debate and the potential for filibusters. This allows members to thoroughly discuss and deliberate on complex issues, emphasizing the importance of careful consideration and consensus-building in the legislative process.

Section 10: Impeachment
The Chamber of Deputies has the constitutional authority to initiate impeachment proceedings, and conducting trials against federal officials, including the Executive Council. While the Chamber of Deputies ultimately conducts the trial, the Chamber of Deputies is also crucial in investigating and presenting articles of impeachment.

Section 11: Constituent Services
Members of the Chamber of Deputies are dedicated to serving their region and people. They act as a bridge between the federal government and the people, addressing individual concerns, advocating for local needs, and ensuring that the diverse voices are heard in the regional arena.

Section 12: Conclusion
In conclusion, the Federal Congress, plays a vital role in ensuring the stability and deliberative nature of the legislative branch. Embodying the spirit of representative democracy, holds a important role in shaping legislation, overseeing government actions. Through equal representation, advice and consent, legislative review, and other constitutional responsibilities, the Chamber of Deputies contributes to the balanced and effective functioning of the Rhenish-Commonwealth's government, and ensuring that the interests and voices of the Rhenish-Commonwealth people are effectively represented in the federal decision-making process.

Article 5: Lawmaking Process

1. Bills may originate in either chamber of Congress and must pass both chambers by a majority vote before being presented to the Monarch for royal assent.
2. The Monarch shall grant royal assent to bills passed by Parliament, which shall then become law.
3. Parliament shall have the power to override a veto by the Monarch with a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers.

Chapter IV: The Executive

Article 6: The Chancellor

Article 7: The Judiciary

Chapter V: Amendment

Article 8: Amendment Process

1. This Constitution may be amended by a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers of Parliament, followed by approval in a national referendum.
2. Amendments shall not contravene the principles of constitutional monarchy, democracy, human rights, or the rule of law.
3. The Monarch shall grant royal assent to constitutional amendments in accordance with established procedures.

Chapter VI: Final Provisions

Article 9: Supremacy of the Constitution

1. This Constitution shall be the supreme law of the land, and all laws and actions inconsistent with its provisions shall be null and void.
2. Any provision of this Constitution may be suspended or modified in times of national emergency, subject to review by Parliament and the judiciary.
3. This Constitution shall come into force upon ratification by a majority of the electorate in a national referendum.