# The exercise of these emergency powers may be reviewed by the [[Frenzy]] if a Representative in the Frenzy moves to do so and is supported by another Representative, once every AN year.
# The exercise of these emergency powers may be reviewed by the [[Frenzy]] if a Representative in the Frenzy moves to do so and is supported by another Representative, once every AN year.
====Article 10: Amendment, Ratification, and Applicability of the Constitution====
===Article 10: Amendment, Ratification, and Applicability of the Constitution===
# Proposals for amending this Constitution can be initiated either by:
# Proposals for amending this Constitution can be initiated either by:
## a formal petition from at least one-third (1/3) of the total number of Representatives in the [[Frenzy]];
## a formal petition from at least one-third (1/3) of the total number of Representatives in the [[Frenzy]];
Revision as of 14:52, 25 October 2023
This article or section is a work in progress. The information below may be incomplete, outdated, or subject to change.
The Imperial Proclamation of Unity, commonly referred to as the Second Declaration of Lindstrom, is a seminal legal and constitutional document that ended the division of Natopia and united it under the rule of EmpressVadoma I. Formally adopted on 3.IX.1717AN, the proclamation was the result of concerted efforts by the Imperial Council of Natopia, drafted in 1716AN and subsequently ratified by the legislatures of both Eastern and Western Natopia. A national referendum across the Natopian Empire held on 4.XIV.1717AN ratified both the Imperial Proclamation of Unity and its accompanying finalized draft of a new Natopian Constitution.
The proclamation was carefully crafted to address the administrative, legal, and social complexities arising from the reunification of Eastern and Western Natopia. It outlined the structural framework for a new unified government, the roles and responsibilities of citizens, and a transitional governance process. Upon adoption, the proclamation dissolved the separate governments of Eastern and Western Natopia, thereby establishing a single, unified provisional government. The Transitional Government of Natopia functioned under the authority of EmpressVadoma I and the Imperial Council of Natopia, which consisted of the Chancellor of Natopia, the Court of Vista de Nada, the Imperial Chancellery, and the heads of the demesnes. The proclamation also reconvened the Frenzy of Natopia as a unicameral legislative body, incorporating representatives from both halves of the empire.
To facilitate a seamless transition, the Imperial Proclamation of Unity established the Transition Governance Committee, a special sub-committee under the Imperial Council, which was tasked with overseeing the transfer of assets, governance, and resolving any outstanding issues related to the reunification. This committee was dissolved in 1719AN, signaling the completion of the transitional process and making the new unified governance structure fully operational. Beyond governance, the proclamation had a profound impact on social and economic aspects of Natopian life. It established a financial assistance program for demesnes and citizens adversely affected by the reunion, allocating funds to support economic development, social services, and infrastructure projects. Following the dissolution of the Transition Governance Committee in 1719, the centralized fund allocation was integrated into the general Natopian budget, and was credited with the rapid economic recovery observed in the subsequent years.
In the years following the adoption of the Imperial Proclamation of Unity and its associated Constitution, Natopia began to experience a period of relative stability and prosperity. The new unified government successfully transitioned into a well-functioning united administration by late 1719AN to early 1720AN. The Imperial Proclamation of Unity stands as a landmark document in Natopian history, embodying the values of unity, governance, and the rule of law, while also serving as a blueprint for conflict resolution and nation-building.
The Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation shall be recognized as the legitimate successor state to both Eastern and Western Natopia, inheriting all responsibilities and authority.
All former territories and peoples governed by Eastern and Western Natopia are now under the jurisdiction of the newly reunified Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation.
A national referendum shall be held in both Eastern and Western Natopia to democratically affirm the reunification process and accompanying legislative changes.
The referendum shall consist of two separate questions:
First Question: "Do you ratify the reintegration of Eastern and Western Natopia under the Imperial Declaration of Unity?"
Second Question: "Do you ratify the new draft Constitution of the Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation?"
The Transitional Government is responsible for organizing, administering, and supervising the referendum, ensuring it adheres to all applicable laws and international standards for free and fair elections.
Article IV: Cultural Protection and Inclusion
The Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation acknowledges the richness of its diverse cultures and shall endeavor to preserve the unique identities and traditions of its constituent demesnes and peoples.
An agency or commission may be formed to oversee this preservation and provide recommendations to the Transitional Government.
Article V: Administrative Measures
The Transitional Government of Natopia, in coordination with local authorities, shall outline and implement all legal, administrative, and logistical requirements for a seamless transition.
This includes the unification of legal codes, standardization of administrative procedures, and ensuring the continuity of government services.
Citizens' rights shall be upheld throughout the transition period, monitored by the Imperial Constabulary to ensure compliance with constitutional mandates.
Article VI: Instrument of Succession
Succession rules shall continue to be governed by Natopian law and the established traditions of the Imperial Family, the House of Waffel-Paine.
In cases of death or incapacity of the reigning Emperor or Empress, the successor, as per the existing legal framework, shall assume the throne.
Only those descended by blood or by butter from Emperor Nathan I, the Once-Living God, and who are members of the House of Waffel-Paine, shall be considered in the line of succession.
WE HEREBY ESTABLISH In accordance with the previous Decree on the Imperial Proclamation of Unity, a Transitional Government of Natopia is to be established to guide the reunification process of Eastern and Western Natopia. The following individuals are hereby appointed to serve in the positions listed below:
Responsibilities: The Chancellor shall act as the head of the Transitional Government, overseeing the unification process and managing the daily operations of government.
Deputy Chancellor of Natopia and Keeper of the Butter Seal of Government: Ernesto de la Cruz
Responsibilities: The Deputy Chancellor shall assist the Chancellor and oversee the use and documentation of the Butter Seal, an emblem of governmental authority and continuity.
Responsibilities: The Secretary shall manage diplomatic relations and represent Natopia in foreign affairs, additionally serving as the Chamberlain of the Court of the Calm Waters.
Responsibilities: The Secretary shall oversee Natopia's defense and military policies, and also act as the Chamberlain of the Court of the Verdant Gardens.
Secretary for Imperial Affairs and Chamberlain of the Court of the Golden Isle: Eiiard Darkroot
Responsibilities: The Secretary shall manage imperial policies, administer the Satyric Guard, maintaining Natopian state icons under the Aigoeidis Kodikas, including designing and granting coats of arms, creating flags, emblem and other symbols, maintains the imperial honor and awards system, oversees the Natopian Peerage, coordinate actions concerning the royal family, and act as Chamberlain of the Court of the Golden Isle.
Secretary for Finance and Economic Affairs and Chamberlain of the Court of Commerce and Guilds: Ernesto de la Cruz
The Secretary shall oversee financial, fiscal, and economic policies, and also act as the Chamberlain of the Court of Commerce and Guilds.
WE DO DECLARE The appointments detailed herein are effective immediately upon the issuance of this Imperial Decree and will remain in place for the duration of the Transitional Government, or until otherwise decreed.
WE DO DECLARE These officials are entrusted with the responsibilities and duties of their respective positions, and they are expected to uphold the laws and traditions of the Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation.
We, the people of Natopia, united in our shared history and culture, reaffirm our commitment to the preservation and perpetuation of our great nation. We recognize the division of Our Empire in recent years as a painful and unfortunate chapter in our history, one that has caused hardship and suffering for our citizens. But we also recognize that it has been a time of reflection and growth, during which we have come to understand the true meaning of unity and the essential role it plays in the strength and prosperity of our nation.
With this understanding, we now come together, as one people, to declare the unity of our Empire and to establish a framework for its governance. We pledge to work together, in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect, to build a Natopia that is stronger, more prosperous, and more just for all its citizens. We call upon all citizens of Natopia to join us in this endeavor, and to work together to ensure that this unity is lasting and meaningful.
Following the Imperial Proclamation of Unity, We the undersigned, by the grace of the gods and the will of the people, do hereby proclaim the CONSTITUTION OF THE BOVIC EMPIRE OF THE NATOPIAN NATION and set forth the following provisions for the governance of the reunited Natopia: --
Article 1: Identity and Governance of the Natopian Nation
The sovereign Natopian state is known as the Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation; it consists of many peoples and nations, seeking prosperity and justice, united together under the Emperor of the Natopians.
The government of the Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation empowers the Natopian people above all and is a representative democracy, with only essential and emergency powers reserved for the monarch and executive for limited use.
The Natopian Nation refers to all peoples, nations, ethnicities, races, tribes, bands, and other groups that proclaim and possess citizenship and allegiance to the Natopian state and the Empress of the Natopians.
A person is born into the Natopian Nation if at least one of their parents is a Natopian citizen at the time of birth; or if the person is born within Natopian jurisdiction. Any other person may pursue Natopian citizenship through a formal immigration process.
The Cross of Sovereignty is the oldest and most important symbol of Natopia and represents the Natopian people at the core, surrounding themselves with a protective government, and using the government to hold their four most cherished and essential rights: freedom, justice, peace, and equality.
The motto of Natopia is "Peace Through Silent Oppression," a sober reminder of the early totalitarian governments that the Natopian Nation actively reformed over generations and a call to the Natopian Nation to remain vigilant against oppression.
The capital of Natopia is Lindström, which shall not be part of, or governed by, any demesne. The Imperial Government and all agencies and bureaus will meet in Lindström if practical. The capital of Natopia may be moved only due to extraordinary circumstances or emergencies, as provided by the Empress of the Natopians, only on the consent and advice of the Chancellor.
To assist in communication among the various peoples of the Natopian Nation, the official administration language of Natopia is Natspeak. No local, cultural, ancient, or minority language shall ever be suppressed by Natopian laws.
The government of Natopia will protect the Natopian people and defend their inherent rights to freedom, justice, peace, and equality. The Empress of the Natopians shall bear the title of Defender of the Constitution.
The Dozan Bovic Church and the Bovinist religion has a special and formal relationship with the Natopian Nation; however adherence to any religion shall never be used to discriminate against a person.
Article 2: Rights, Liberties, and Responsibilities of the Natopian People.
The people of the Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation shall freely enjoy their inherent and duly recognized rights and freedoms enumerated in this Constitution, which shall not be interpreted in a manner that would infringe upon the dignity, liberty, or equality of any individual.
This provisions of this Article shall apply equally to all Natopians, without regard to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, or any other characteristic of personal identity defined by the law.
Freedom of thought, opinion, and expression are guaranteed to all Natopians.
All Natopians have the right to privacy, including the right to be free from unlawful search and seizure and the right to control personal data.
Freedom of religion and belief shall be guaranteed.
Natopians shall have the right to peaceful assembly and association.
All Natopians shall have the right to healthcare, housing, education, and food security.
Workers' rights, including the right to fair compensation, collective bargaining, and safe working conditions, shall be protected.
Discrimination in employment, education, and housing based on any characteristic of personal identity is prohibited.
All Natopians have the right to define their own gender identity and sexual orientation.
All forms of discrimination, including but not limited to those based on sexual orientation or gender identity, are strictly prohibited.
All Natopians have the right to marry whomever they choose, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.
All Natopians between the ages of 18 and 20 are required to complete a minimum of one (1) year of national service.
This service may be in the military, governmental work, or other community services that benefit the Natopian Empire.
Accommodations shall be made for those with disabilities and alternative forms of service will be made available.
Conscientious objectors may apply for exemption on moral or religious grounds but will be required to serve in a non-combat or administrative role.
All Natopians are responsible for upholding the laws and principles outlined in the Constitution, including the respect for the rights of others.
Natopians are required to pay taxes and contribute to the welfare and defense of the Natopian Empire, including through the national service requirement.
No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.
Limitations on the restriction of rights and freedoms within this Constitution shall adhere to the following principles:
Any law aiming to restrict or limit the rights and freedoms enumerated in this Constitution must be publicly justified by the government as serving a compelling and legitimate objective.
Such justification must include transparent, factual evidence demonstrating that the restriction is necessary for the well-being, safety, or democratic governance of the Natopian Empire.
The law must be the least restrictive means available for achieving the stated objective, ensuring that the rights and freedoms of Natopians are infringed upon as minimally as possible.
Any such law must undergo regular review by the Frenzy to assess its ongoing necessity and to ensure it does not become a permanent or excessive curtailment of rights and freedoms.
All processes involved in the creation, justification, and review of such laws must be fully transparent and open to public scrutiny, allowing for meaningful civic participation and comment.
Article 3: The Empress of the Natopians
The Emperor will defend this Constitution, serve as the nation's head of state and Imperial Sovereign, protect the Natopian Nation from all threats foreign and domestic, display exemplary civic character, and serve as a living symbol of Natopian unity.
Whenever the text refers to the Empress, it shall be construed to also apply to male and non-gender conforming holders of the title.
Executive power over foreign affairs and responsibility for defense of the Nation is vested in the Empress of the Natopians and exercised through His Most Bovic Majesty's Imperial Court. The Consort is also as styled His/Her/Their Most Bovic Majesty.
The children of the Empress are titled as Prince/Princess of Natopia and styled as His/Her/Their Imperial Highness.
The Empress holds power to regulate and define the structure, officers, and symbols of the Imperial Court.
The Empress is the Head of State, a symbol of Natopia and guardian of the unity, peace, order, and proper governance of the Natopian Nation.
There will be no other self-styled emperors or kings in the Bovic Empire; except ancient and duly recognized royal titles and kings of formerly sovereign nations that have since entered into the Bovic Empire as provided by the Empress via Imperial Decree.
The spouse of the reigning Empress is titled either Emperor-Consort of the Natopians, Empress-Consort of the Natopians, or Imperial Consort of the Natopians, according to the spouse's preference.
The Empress appoints ambassadors, liaisons, and delegates to foreign states, entities, and organizations and receives foreign heads of state, ambassadors, ministers and other envoys.
The Empress grants amnesty, commutes punishments, and issues pardons.
The Empress is commander-in-chief of the Natopian Defense Force, with the traditional and customary military rank of Grand Commander.
The Empress issues Imperial Decrees that have the authority of law to conduct matters as head of state; to administer foreign and military affairs; regulate and administer his Imperial Court; to protect and enforce their Instrument of Succession, issued by the Empress; to create and bestow titles, honors, and awards; and to temporarily govern the entire Imperial Government in such dire national emergencies as declared by the Frenzy.
The Empress remains in his authority until the Empress' uncontested death or abdication.
An uncontested death is irrefutable public evidence of the Empress' death.
An abdication is written by the Empress' own hand and is submitted to the Frenzy.
The Instrument of Succession persists during the transition between emperors and remains in its most recently issued state until explicitly altered by the next Emperor.
The Empress maintains the Instrument of Succession regularly, to ensure the list of successors is accurate, void of deceased persons, and only includes potential successors who will be beneficial for the Natopian Nation.
If no successors exist, the Frenzy will select a new Empress by Resolution. The Frenzy will first invite members of the House of Waffel-Paine to become Emperor. Then, secondly, the Frenzy will invite worthy descendants of Nathan Waffel-Paine. If no such descendants exist then members of the following Imperial Houses will invited: Ayreon-Kalirion, Eadric, Carrillo. The Frenzy must select a new Empress who will ensure above all else the independence and sovereignty of the Natopian Nation.
The Empress must appoint a Regent and the Regent must be able fulfill all critical responsibilities of the Empress during any absence of the Empress that exceeds three (3) continuous Norton months (6 Gregorian days).
In situations where the Imperial Sovereign is under the Bovic Age of Accountability (8 Natopian years) then the Regent will fulfill the Imperial Duties and Responsibilities of the minor Imperial Sovereign until the dawn of the day of the minor Imperial Sovereign's 8th birthday.
The Regent is a member of the Imperial Court, and serves as the deputy for the Empress, assisting the Empress in their daily functions, and will assume the Empress' powers during absences declared by the Empress.
The Regent may be directed by the Empress to perform Imperial duties in their name at anytime.
The Regent is appointed solely by the Regent and serves at the pleasure of the Regent.
If there is no Regent, or the Regent is unable to serve, the Frenzy shall appoint a Regent from among the Princes and Princesses of the Empire, or if not possible from amongst the citizenry.
The crimes of regicide and treason shall carry the punishment of death and will be the only crimes that can carry that punishment in the Natopian nation.
Article 4: The Chancellor of Natopia and the Executive Government
Executive power over domestic affairs of the Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation is vested in the Chancellor. This includes but is not limited to law enforcement, public policy formulation, and administration of government services. The Chancellor acts as the political and administrative leader of the government, representing the Empire both domestically and internationally in areas designated by the Empress.
The Chancellor presides over the Frenzy, maintains the Library of Law, serves as Head of Government, and upholds and enforces this Constitution and the Imperial Proclamation of Unity and the laws of the Natopian Nation and the Caprine Code. Additional duties include overseeing immigration policies, guiding economic growth, and presenting Bills passed by the Frenzy to the Empress for Imperial Assent. The Chancellor also advises the Empress on domestic concerns and administers the day-to-day affairs of government.
Court of the Calm Waters - Headed by the Secretary for Foreign Affairs, responsible for managing foreign relations and diplomatic missions.
Court of the Verdant Gardens - Headed by the Secretary for Defense, responsible for Defense and military affairs.
Court of the Golden Isle - Headed by the Secretary for Imperial Affairs, responsible for managing imperial policies, administering the Satyric Guard, maintaining Natopian state icons under the Aigoeidis Kodikas, including designing and granting coats of arms, creating flags, emblems and other symbols, maintaining the imperial honor and awards system, overseeing the Natopian Peerage, coordinating actions concerning the royal family, and acting as Chamberlain of the Court of the Golden Isle.
Court of Commerce and Guilds - Headed by the Secretary for Finance and Economic Affairs, responsible for financial, fiscal, and economic policies, and also acting as Chamberlain of the Court of Commerce and Guilds.
These Secretaries of State and Chamberlains shall be appointed by the Empress with the advice and consent of the Chancellor. They shall serve at the pleasure of the Chancellor and may be dismissed by the Empress with the consent and advice of the Chancellor at any time for reasons deemed sufficient by the Chancellor.
The Chancellor shall have the title of His/Her/Their Excellency, and Chief of Government.
To fulfill the obligations of the office, the Chancellor issues Executive Orders. These are formal directives or regulations intended to guide or instruct government officials and agencies within the Imperial Chancellery's jurisdiction.
The Chancellor is responsible for maintaining an up-to-date legal archive that aligns with the actions of the Frenzy. This includes numbering or renumbering sections and clauses within the Code to maintain logical consistency. The Chancellor also has the authority to correct typographic, grammatical, or clerical errors within the Code.
The Chancellor shall also oversee national policies relating to energy, healthcare, education, science and technology, and environmental sustainability, and may establish additional Chancellerial Ministries or Government Agencies for the purpose of effective and proper governance.
In the event of a vacancy due to the resignation, death, or incapacity of a sitting Chancellor, the Empress shall nominate a citizen who will likely have the confidence of the Frenzy. Following a vote of confidence, the Empress swears in the new Chancellor.
The Chancellor shall designate one of the appointed ministers as a Deputy Chancellor. This individual will assume the duties of the Chancellor during any temporary vacancy or incapacity of the Chancellor and shall have the title of Keeper of the Butter Seal of Government.
The Chancellor may be removed from office only through a constructive vote of no confidence by the Frenzy. This vote must also name a replacement chancellorial nominee who has the confidence of the Frenzy.
The Imperial Chancellery shall comprise various ministries and departments, each headed by a Minister or a Director appointed by the Chancellor, to assist in the governance and administration of specific realms of public affairs.
The Ministers and Directors of the Imperial Chancellery shall report directly to the Chancellor and serve at the pleasure of the Chancellor. They may be dismissed at any time for reasons deemed sufficient by the Chancellor, subject to the constitutional limitations and prerogatives of the Empress.
The Imperial Chancellery shall have the authority to issue regulations, guidelines, and standards in accordance with the laws enacted by the Frenzy and within the parameters set forth by this Constitution and the Imperial Proclamation of Unity.
The Imperial Chancellery shall collaborate with the Imperial Court of Natopia, other Ministries, and independent agencies for the purpose of policy formulation, program implementation, and the execution of laws. Such collaboration shall be conducted transparently and be aligned with the collective objectives of the Imperial Government.
Lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the Natopian Empire;
Borrow money on the credit of the Natopian Empire;
Regulate commerce with foreign nations, between demesnes, and with indigenous entities;
Establish uniform laws on the subjects of bankruptcy and naturalization;
Establish a national educational curriculum, as well as other national standards as necessary as provided by law;
Coin money and regulate the value thereof, and of foreign coin;
Provide punishment for counterfeiting the securities and current coin of the Natopian Empire;
Establish post offices and post roads;
Promote science and the arts by securing exclusive rights to inventors and authors;
Declare war, grant letters of marque and reprisal, and make rules concerning captures on land and water;
Raise and support armies;
Provide and maintain a navy;
Provide and maintain space and air forces;
Make rules for the government and regulation of the land, naval, space, and air forces;
Suppress insurrections and repel invasions;
Provide for the calling forth of the militia to enforce laws, suppress insurrections, or repel invasions;
Make all laws necessary and proper for carrying into execution the foregoing powers and all other powers vested by this Constitution in any part of the Government of the Natopian Empire.
The Frenzy may independently punish its own members for disorderly behavior and, with a two-thirds (2/3s) majority, expel a member.
Questions shall be decided by the absolute majority of members present.
Each Representative has one vote, regardless of the method by which they were elected.
Representatives must be over the age of 25, of sound mind, and not convicted of regicide, treason, or other major crimes as determined by law.
The number of Representatives per demesne shall be determined through the application of the D'Hondt method, adjusted for demographic changes as necessary.
Regulate laws for its personnel, employees, and contractors.
Article 6: The Judicial System of the Natopian Empire
The judicial powers of the Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation are vested in the Court of the Noble Fountain.
The Court of the Noble Fountain shall serve as the apex judicial body and final court of appeal within the Natopian Empire.
Subsidiary courts, tribunals, and administrative judicial bodies may be established by laws passed by the Frenzy or by demesnial legislative bodies.
The Court of the Noble Fountain shall be housed within the premises of His Most Bovic Majesty's Imperial Court, in a facility designed to meet the specific needs of the judiciary.
The Court of the Noble Fountain shall be chaired by the Empress.
The Court shall additionally comprise:
One (1) Secretary, who will act as the chief administrative officer;
A minimum of two (2), and a maximum of four (4), Legal Advisers.
All appointments to the Court of the Noble Fountain require the following steps:
Nomination by the Empress, with the advice and consent of the Chancellor;
Confirmation by a simple majority vote in the Frenzy.
Appointees shall serve for fixed terms of twelve (12) Anno Nortone (AN) years.
Upon the expiry of a term, the Empress or the Secretary may recommend a member for reappointment.
Reappointment requires confirmation by a simple majority vote in the Frenzy.
Appointees shall swear an Oath of Allegiance and Impartiality prior to taking office, as provided by the law.
The oath must explicitly include pledges to uphold the Constitution, respect the rule of law, to recuse oneself as provided by this Constitution, and exercise judicial duties impartially.
The specific wording of the oath will be established by Imperial Decree.
Membership in the Court may be terminated upon:
Submission of a written resignation to the Empress;
Death;
Removal via a vote that receives at least a two-thirds (2/3) majority from the Frenzy and subsequent confirmation by the Empress.
The Court's jurisdiction extends to all matters involving federal and demesnial law, constitutional issues, and any case where at least one party is a citizen, resident, or entity registered within the Natopian Empire.
Decisions shall be made by a simple majority vote among the present and voting members of the Court, including the Empress, Secretary, and Legal Advisers.
Any decision made by the Court is final and may be revised or overruled only through a formal review procedure defined by the Court.
All decisions shall take immediate effect and require prompt implementation, unless a stay of execution or an alternative timeline is specified by the Court.
The Court shall define its own operating procedures, codes of conduct, and rules of evidence.
These must be published in the official Natopian legal gazette and made accessible to the public.
Any member of the Court who is directly or indirectly involved in a case as a party, witness, or interested entity shall recuse themselves from all deliberations and voting related to that case.
Article 7: Definitions and Establishment of Demesnes
A demesne is a political and administrative subdivision of the Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation that holds governmental jurisdiction over a separate and defined geographic territory.
Demesnes are established and their borders defined solely through Acts passed by the Frenzy and assented by the Empress of the Natopians.
Each demesne shall be governed by a Viceroy, who shall act as the representative of the Empress in the demesne, and a designated demesnial head of government. These positions may be unified into one office, pending approval by the Empress and the Frenzy.
All legislation creating or amending the governance structure of a demesne can be repealed, amended, or overridden by an Act of the Frenzy.
Special conditions or exceptions concerning a demesne must be outlined in the Caprine Code, which acts as the codified source for demesnial governance.
New demesnial governments or significant amendments to existing structures must be submitted to the Empress for Imperial Assent.
Rejection of a proposed demesnial government by the Empress can be overturned by a Resolution supported by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of the Representatives in the Frenzy.
Demesnial governments must operate in compliance with federal laws and the Constitution of Natopia.
Article 8: Reserved Powers for Demesnes
Demesnes may organize their internal subdivisions but must submit these plans for review by the Frenzy.
Demesnes may petition the Frenzy for territorial expansion into overseas colonies or adjacent lands, subject to federal approval and international obligations.
In the unlikely event of the dissolution of the Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation, demesnes may become sovereign entities, retaining current territorial boundaries. Existing demesnial unions shall remain intact unless otherwise decreed.
No demesne, part thereof, or demesnial union, may secede from the Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation without the official recognition of a negotiated Secession Agreement approved by an Act of the Frenzy.
Inter-demesnial compacts or agreements for mutual benefit are permissible but must be ratified by the Frenzy.
Article 9: Emergency Government and Federal Intervention for Demesnes
In the event of the total collapse or illegitimacy of a demesne's government, the Imperial Chancellery shall assume administrative control until a new demesnial government can be constituted.
The Frenzy, upon recommendation from the Imperial Chancellery, has the power to declare a demesne government illegitimate in cases of gross violations of federal or constitutional law, and to appoint an interim government.
Should a demesnial union's government collapse, the Imperial Chancellery, with Frenzy approval, has the authority to restructure the demesnes involved, including but not limited to forming new unions, separating them into individual demesnes, or integrating them into other demesnial unions.
The exercise of these emergency powers may be reviewed by the Frenzy if a Representative in the Frenzy moves to do so and is supported by another Representative, once every AN year.
Article 10: Amendment, Ratification, and Applicability of the Constitution
Proposals for amending this Constitution can be initiated either by:
a formal petition from at least one-third (1/3) of the total number of Representatives in the Frenzy;
Following the period of debate in the Frenzy, the proposed amendment must receive a supermajority approval of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the total Representatives in the Frenzy.
After approval by the Frenzy, the amendment shall be sent to the Empress for Imperial Assent.
The amendment becomes effective immediately upon receiving Imperial Assent, unless a future effective date is specified.
Once an amendment receives Imperial Assent, it shall be published and disseminated throughout the Empire for public review.
The amendment shall be ratified automatically unless challenged by a petition bearing signatures of at least ten percent (10%) of the electorate, within one AN year of its publication.
If challenged, a public referendum shall be held, requiring a simple majority of the voting population for ratification.
This Constitution, and any amendments thereto, shall be the supreme law of the land and shall have binding effect over all lands, territories, possessions, and realms that are part of the Bovic Empire of the Natopian Nation.
No laws or constitutions of any demesne, territory, or other subordinate division may supersede or conflict with the federal Constitution or the Caprine Code.
All Viceroys, demesnial heads of government, and other officials throughout the Empire shall swear an oath to uphold this Constitution, and they shall be bound by its provisions.
The Empress retains the right, in extraordinary circumstances, to propose amendments that bypass the Frenzy, subject to subsequent approval by a majority (50%+1) of the Frenzy and ratified by a national referendum, as provided by law.
The federal government retains the power to nullify any demesnial laws or actions that are in violation of the federal Constitution or the Caprine Code, subject to judicial review by the Court of the Noble Fountain.
