RPF-INKOTANYI BASIC DOCUMENTS
Kigali, 2008
CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION………………………………………………………………………………………5
II. PREAMBLE…………………………………………………………………………………………….7
III. THE POLITICAL PROGRAMME OF RPF-INKOTANYI…….…… …………….8
• First Point: restoration of unity among Rwandans…………………………………………9
• Second Point: defend the sovereignty of the country and ensure the security of its people and property…………………………………………………………………………. ………10
• Third Point: establishing democratic leadership…………………………………………..11
• Fourth Point: promoting the economy based on the country’s natural resources.12
• Fifth Point: fighting corruption, favouritism and embezzlement of national resources………………………………………………………………………………………………….13
• Sixth Point: improving the living conditions of the citizens……………………….14
• Seventh Point: Eliminating all causes for fleeing the country and returning Rwandan refugees back into the country………………………….…………………16
• Eighth Point: Promoting international relations based on mutual respect, cooperation and mutually beneficial economic exchange……………………………….16
• Ninth Point: fighting genocide and genocide ideology………………………………….17
IV. CONCLUSION………………………………………………………………………………………..18
VI. THE CONSTITUTION OF RPF-INKOTANYI AS AMENDED AND COMPLETED TO DATE………………………………………………………………………….19
Preamble…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….20
Part I: Name – political programme -insignia – head office………………………………………21
Part II: Membership……………………………………………………………………………………………..22
Part III: Organisational structures of the RPF-INKOTANYI…………………………………..23
- Chapter 1: Leadership of the RPF-INKOTANYI……………………………………………………..23
- Chapter 2: Obligations of the leaders of the RPF- INKOTANYI ……………………………31
- Chapter 3: The RPF-INKOTANYI Leagues…………………………………………….33
- Chapter 4: Special organs…………………………………………………………………………………..34
Part 4: The RPF-INKOTANYI Leaders…………………………………………………………….36
Part 5: RPF-INKOTANYI meetings………………………………………………………………………37
Part 6: RPF-INKOTANYI resources…………………………………………………………………….38
Part 7: Transitional provisions and conclusion………………………………………………………..39
THE POLITICAL PROGRAMME OF THE RPF-INKOTANYI
INTRODUCTION
In 1979, some Rwandans came together and assessed the problems facing this country of ours and agreed to combine their efforts and establish a political organization named RANU (Rwandese Alliance for National Unity) to resolve these problems.
In1987,thefoundersofRANUalongwithother Rwandans who shared the purpose of building wanda, assessed its accomplishments and failures as well as the causes for these failures and decided to modify its Political Programme, methods and nature so as to nclude all patriotic Rwandans. In order to unite all Rwandans in one cause, they agreed to change the name of the organisation to RPF- INKOTANYI (Rwandese Patriotic Front). The Political Programme of the RPF-INKOTANYI was set forth in 8 points that accommodate all patriotic Rwandans, and uphold unity, peace, democracy and development.
In 1990, after all else had failed, the RPF- INKOTANYI had to resort to combining its political effort with an armed struggle in order to fight the dictatorship of the ruling party MRND and to liberate Rwanda. This led the MRND to accept the diplomatic talks that esulted in the 1993 Arusha peace accord.
Regrettably, however, instead of allowing the implementation of the peace accords, the MRND decided to plan the extermination of all Tutsis as well as all Hutus opposed to that ideology that resulted in the 1994 genocide.
Faced by the political, economic and social aftermath of the genocide, the RPF- INKOTANYI re-evaluated the Political Programme they had established in order to resolve the problems the country was facing The RPF-INKOTANYI found that by implementing the 8 points of its Political Programme, almost all the problems Rwanda faces could be resolved. However, after the RPF-INKOTANYI considered how deeply Rwanda had been indoctrinated with the genocide ideology to the point of its actual perpetration, and after considering how this ideology as being spread in the great lakes region in which Rwanda is located, the RPF-INKOTANYI decided to add a special 9th point to its Political Programme. It involves fighting genocide and its ideology in Rwanda, the great lakes region and wherever else necessary.
Rwanda has spent the many years facing big political, economic and social problems.
During this period, these problems have been aggravated by the genocide and its aftermath.
Nevertheless, the RPF-INKOTANYI believed that good governance with good objectives and methods bringing all Rwandans together in a united effort, could resolve all these problems.
This document contains the Political Programme of the RPF-INKOTANYI aimed at resolving the problems Rwanda faces, to uphold unity, peace, democracy and development and to ensure that the country is respected and valuable to other countries.
The RPF-INKOTANYI is open to all Rwandans who believe in and support the Political Programme, methods and nature of the organisation. The RPF-INKOTANYI is ready to work with any Rwandan who agrees with this Political Programme.
Kigali,
KAGAME Paul
PRESIDENT DU FPR-INKOTANYI.
II. PREAMBLE
Rwanda is a relatively small country of 26,338 square Km and with up to 10 million inhabitants, making it the most densely populated country in Africa.
Unlike most countries in Africa, Rwanda was not among the countries that were demarcated by the Europeans. When the Europeans arrived in Africa, Rwanda had already existed for hundreds of years, with its own borders and recognized leadership that united its inhabitants. It was respected by the neighbouring countries with which it had relations.
The Europeans found Rwanda politically independent, with its own laws that were Aimed at ensuring the benefits of its inhabitants.
The country had its own recognized and respected leadership that united its people.
Rwanda was also economically independent with seh-sustaining activities (cultivation, animal husbandry, iron smelting, carpentry…).
Because there was no actual currency in Rwanda at the time, the people relied on barter trade to supply their needs. Because the economy was based on agriculture, the Rwandan people established a system to provide land for those who had none, this was known as ubugererwa, cows were also provided to those had none through a system known as ubuhake. In this system of bugererwa and ubuhake, there were some injustices like in the history of any other country in the world; the masters did not always give their servants what they deserved.
Rwanda was independent and had its own culture. The culture united all Rwandans, most especially the common language, religion, education and others. Rwandan children were taught to love and work for the country, to follow the rules that governed human relations such as respect, integrity, honesty, discretion, diligence, friendliness and others.
It is obvious this unity among Rwandans was the source of the country’s strength.
When the colonial master arrived in Rwanda (Germans 1899-1916 and Belgians 1916-1962) Rwanda lost all political economic and cultural independence. The Rwandan leadership was controlled by the colonial masters and worked for their gain instead of the benefit of the Rwandans. The colonial masters established laws and selected leaders for Rwanda in a manner tailored to satisfy their own advantages. The Rwandan economy was adapted to supply the markets of the colonial masters with products like coffee, tea, minerals and others. The colonial masters brought schools and religions teaching their culture while alienating the culture that the Rwandans already had. The colonial masters used the divide and rule principle in Rwanda, creating falsehoods claiming that Rwandans actually had different origins, did not arrive in the country together, do not have equal intelligence, should not do the same work or have the same education, all aimed at dividing the people. It is this seed of segregation and favouritism among Rwandans that ultimately destroyed their unity.
During the early 1950s, when African nations were fighting for independence, Rwandans as well fought for their independence. The majority of those who fought for Rwandan independence were Tutsi, so the Belgians began spreading the ideology that Tutsis were themselves foreigners and had originated from Abyssinia. They encouraged Hutus to destroy and burn their homes, kill them and send them into exile. At the end of 1959, the
PARMEHUTU party followed this ideology and even carried it out with the help of the colonial masters. Rwanda gained its independence in 1962 after the killings carried out by MDR-PARMEHUTU in which many Tutsis lost their lives while others fled into exile. That party was then rewarded with the leadership of Rwanda.
After Rwanda gained its independence in 1962, the MDR-PARMEHUTU (1962-1973) regime as well as the MRND (1973-1994) regime decided to carry on the segregation legacy of the colonial masters and the problems were compounded further. Those regimes were characterised by bad methods such as:
- Openly preading egregation propaganda;
- Propagating hatred among Rwandans;
- Exclusion of some Rwandans in school, work and politics;
- Oppression of fellow Rwandans, destroying and burning their homes, killing them and sending them into exile, even culminating into the 1994 genocide;
- No democracy and no opportunity for the people to participate in their leadership;
- No effective economic agenda for the development of Rwanda, leaving the Rwandan people in poverty, disease, ignorance and dependence on foreign aid;
- Promoting the profit of the leaders above the people’s welfare giving rise to corruption, favouritism, waste and embezzlement of national resources;
The RPF-INKOTANYI was formed with the objective of fighting bad governance that characterised Rwanda’s history and to solve all the problems that resulted. Both the political and the armed struggle were aimed at liberating Rwanda from the bad dictatorial leadership in order to build a nation that abides by law, and upholds democracy, peace, security, justice and development.
The Political Programme of the RPF-INKOTANYI is explained in this document.
It is aimed at solving those difficult political, economic and social problems faced by Rwanda.
III. THE POLITICAL PROGRAMME OF THE RPF-INKOTANYI
The RPF-INKOTANYI, having studied in etail the problems facing our country, Rwanda, as evidenced by in its history, and more particularly:
- Given the need to re-establish unity among Rwandans, and for that unity to be the foundation for building peace and development in Rwanda;
- Given that segregation and the abuse of basic human rights among Rwandans resulted in a terrible genocide in this country;
- Considering that giving the people the right to participate in choosing their leaders is the basis for true democracy and development;
- Determined to commit itself to the resolution of Rwanda’s political, economic and social problems;
Has decided to elaborate and implement a political programme aimed at building a nation that is free and fair to all Rwandans.
That programme comprises the following nine points:
1. Restoration of unity among Rwandans;
2. Defending the sovereignty of the country nd ensure the security of people and property;
3. Establishment of democratic leadership;
4. Promoting the economy based on the country’s natural resources;
5. Elimination of corruption, favouritism and embezzlement of national resources;
6. Promoting social welfare;
7. Eliminating all causes for fleeing the country and returning Rwandan refugees back into the country;
8. Promoting international relations based on mutual respect, cooperation and mutually beneficial economic exchange;
9. Fighting genocide and its ideology.
IV. CONCLUSION
This Political Programme was prepared by RPF-I KOTANYI after careful analysis of the problems facing the country. The RPF- INKOTANYI believes that the realization of this Political Programme would solve Rwanda’s current problems including the coexistence of Rwandans, security, as well as economic and political problems.
However, though some problems may be solved today, tomorrow’s world will present new challenges. RPF-INKOTANYI pledges to Rwandans that it will maintain its overall objective of resolving all problems that Rwanda will face.
For this reason, RPF-INKOTANYI will adapt its Political Programme whenever necessary depending on the new challenges Rwanda will face.
VI. RPF-INKOTANYI CONSTITUTION AS AMENDED AND COMPLETED TO DATE
PREAMBLE
Given that, the history of our country shows us that Rwandans lived together as one people since the beginning;
And given that that history was largely characterized by leaders who did not represent the people; Given that the Rwandan nation has suffered with some of its citizens deprived of their rights, killed, and others fleeing the country; Given that Rwanda’s economy was largely plundered and misappropriated by the various former regimes;
Given that, in 1979 a political organization named RANU (Rwandese Alliance for National Unity) was founded with the objective of uniting Rwandans and sensitizing them against the oppression and dictatorship that were prevalent in Rwanda;
Given that in 1987 RANU transformed itself transformed into a new political organization known as the Rwandese Patriotic Front (RPF- INKOTANYI);
Due to the fact that RPF-INKOTANYI began an armed struggle on the 1st of October 1990 to liberate Rwanda; Due to the fact that RPF-INKOTANYI overthrew the dictatorship and stopped the genocide in July 1994;
Due to the fact that, RPF-INKOTANYI along with other political parties founded a government of national unity of Rwandans;
Due to the fact that, RPF-INKOTANYI never ceases to promote unity, democracy, and development and openness to all ideas to achieve those objectives;
Due to the fact that, since the founding of the government of national unity, RPF-INKOTANYI took the lead in rebuilding the country, promoting and maintaining good governance and harmony among Rwandans
WE, THE MEMBERS OF RPF-INKOTANYI, After observation and analysis of the problems that our country faces resulting from the bad governance that prevailed in the past;
After deciding that the RPF-INKOTANYI should be the icon for good governance that will lead Rwanda to true change;
After deciding that no cause will ever sway us from that objective;
Given that the objectives of the RPF- INKOTANYI are unity, democracy, and development;
Due to our love for our country and its people;
Given the constitution of the Republic of Rwanda of the 4th June 2003 as amended and completed to date; especially in Articles 52 to 59;
Given organic law n° 16/2003 of the 27th June 2003 as amended and completed by law n° 19 /2007 of the 04/05/2007 governing political parties and politicians;
Given the decisions of the meeting of the Political Bureau of 28 June 2003; and on 2 June 2007;
Given the decisions of the meeting of the RPF- INKOTANYI Congress of 29 December 2007;
The Congress of the RPF-INKOTANYI, in a meeting of the 29/12/2007 approved the following amendments and additions:
PART I : NAME-GOAL – OBJECTIVE – INSIGNIA – HEAD OFFICE.
Article 1:
This constitution governs the political organization known as « FRONT PATRIOTIQUE RWANDAIS-INKOTANYI » abbreviated as FPR-INKOTANYI or «RWANDA PATRIOTIC FRONT-INKOTANYI » abbreviated as RPF- INKOTANYI:
Article 2:
The Goals of the RPF-INKOTANYI are National Unity, Democracy, and Development.
Article 3:
RPF-INKOTANYI aims to free all Rwandans from the burden of ignorance, poverty, segregation, and dictatorship and to bring unity, democracy, and development.
Article 4:
The Political Programme of the RPF-INKOTANYI is as follows:
a) Restore unity among Rwandans;
b) Defend the sovereignty of the country and ensure the security of its people and property;
c) Promoting democracy;
d) Building an economy based on the country’s natural resources;
e) Elimmating corruption, favouritism, and embezzlement of national resources;
f) Improving the social standard of living of the citizens;
g) Elimination of all causes for fleeing the country and ensuring the return of refugees;
h) Ensuring relations between Rwanda and other nations based on mutual respect, cooperation and mutually beneficial economic exchanges;
i) Fighting genocide and genocide ideology;
Article 5:
RPF-INKOTANYI is represented by a flag of three coloured columns in the following sequence: red, white, and sky-blue.
There is an inscription of a single letter in black on each column arranged in the following sequence: F in the red column, P in the white, and R in the blue. The red represents the sacrifice made by Rwandan heroes who gave their blood for their country. The white stands for democracy and blue for unity.
Article 6:
The RPF-INKOTANYI emblem is a symbol with the following figures:
- A lake with clear water;
- Green hills;
- The rising sun;
- Two intersecting bamboos;
- A Lion;
These figures are surrounded by the colours of the RPF-INKOTANYI flag and a yellow band with the inscription of the goals of the RPF-INKOTANYI.
The lake and green hills represent the beauty of Rwanda. The lion represents Rwanda’s sovereignty.
The two intersecting bamboos represent the sacrifice and unity of the patriots.
The rising sun represents the new principles the RPF-INKOTANYI will use to govern the country, and the light from the sun illuminates the Rwandan people towards these principles.
The yellow band represents the deep hope Rwandans hold for the future.
Article 7:
The headquarters of RPF-INKOTANYI are in Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. It can be moved temporarily subject to approval by the Executive Committee or permanently subject to approval by the Congress.
PART II: MEMBERSHIP
Article 8:
Membership into the RPF-INKOTANYI is open to all Rwandans of 18 years and older, who believe in the Political Programme, and constitution of the RPF-INKOTANYI regardless of gender, ethnicity, place of origin, religion, economic status etc.
Article 9:
The RPF-INKOTANYI comprises members who satisfy the requirements of Article 8
above and are approved by a competent organ of the RPF-INKOTANYI.
Article 10:
The rights and obligations of members are provided for in the RPF-INKOTANYI Internal Regulations. The conduct of the members is also governed by the RPF-INKOTANYI Internal Regulations.
Article 11:
Membership is terminated through resignation, dismissal or death.
Intended resigning members will address a letter to the district General Assembly or the Congress of the RPF-INKOTANYI in Kigali.
A member shall be dismissed due to disregard for the Political Programme of the RPF-INKOTANYI and the regulations governing the conduct of members as provided for in the Internal Regulations.
The decision to dismiss a member is made by the Congress of the RPF-INKOTANYI.
PART III: ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURES OF HE RPF-INKOTANYI
CHAPTER 1: LEADERSHIP OF THE RPF-INKOTANYI
Article 12:
The RPF-INKOTANYI is divided into national level, Province level/Kigali City, district level, sector level, cell level and village.
The RPF-INKOTANYI leadership from district to village level is responsible for the basic political, economic, administrative and social activities of the RPF-INKOTANYI.
Article 13:
The leadership structure of the RPF-INKOTANYI at national level is as follows:
a) The Congress of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
b) The national Political Bureau;
c) National Executive Committee;
Article 14:
The leadership structure of the RPF-INKOTANYI from Province/Kigali City to village level is as follows:
a) General Assembly;
b) Executive Committee;
SECTION I
THE RPF-INKOTANYI CONGRESS AND THE PROVINCIAL/KIGALI CITY GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Article 15:
Members of the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress fall under the following categories;
1. National Executive Committee;
2. Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and Secretary of the Executive Committee at Provincial/Kigali City level;
3. District RPF-INKOTANYI Chairperson;
4. Heads of Leagues of the RPF-INKOTANYI at district and Province level/Kigali City;
5. Members of the Women’s Council at national level;INKOTANYI /Rwandese Patriotic Front (RPF)-INKOTANYI » ;
6. Bureau members of the National Youth Council;
7. Chairperson of the national Youth Council at Provincial/Kigali City level;
8. Chairperson of the national Women’s Council at Provincial/ Kigali City level;
9. Highranking officials: Ministers, Provincial Governors, Mayor of Kigali, Members of Parliament, Secretary Generals and others at that level, Institution Directors, Executive Secretaries at Provincial/Kigali City level, and Ambassadors;
10. Executive Committee of Kigali City;
11. Representatives of student unions in institutions of higher learning and the National University of Rwanda;
12. Kigali City Council Bureau;
13. District Council Bureau;
14. District Executive Committees;
15. Sector RPF-INKOTANYI Chairperson;
16. Member representing the handicapped at national level;
17. Members representing the entrepreneurs at national level;
18. Members representing those in the private sector at national level;
19. Member representing the entrepreneurs at Provincial/Kigali City level;
20. Member representing those in the private sector at Provincial/Kigali City level;
21. Member representing the handicapped at Provincial/Kigali City level;
22. Former Provincial/Kigali RPF- INKOTANYI Chairpersons;
23. Former regional Chairpersons and permanent RPF-INKOTANYI cadres in the Executive Committee and at regional level;
24. Members who were formerly High Command officers in the army during the liberation struggle who are now retired from military service as well as former members of the RPF-INKOTANYI National Executive Committee(NEC);
25. A member representing former soldiers at Provincial/Kigali City level; The RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committee can invite other members when necessary.
Article 16:
The main obligations of the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress are as follows:
1. The establishment and amendment of the constitution and other regulatory texts that govern the RPF-INKOTANYI;
2. Approving RPF-INKOTANYI political line;
3. Approving the budget of the RPF- INKOTANYI;
4. Setting forth the action plan of the RPF- INKOTANYI;
5. Approving the activity report and the report of resource allocation of the RPF- INKOTANYI;
6. Evaluating and monitoring the activity and functioning of other levels of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
7. Electing the Executive Committee, the Disciplinary Committee, and the Inspectorate at national level;
8. Evaluating, approving, modifying or disapproving decisions made at other levels;
9. Establishment of committees in charge of accessing and analyzing its activities;
10. ElectingandapprovingRPF-INKOTANYI candidates nominated by the Political Bureau to campaign in elections at national level;
11. Making decisions regarding the conduct of members at national level;
12. Making decisions regarding reports of the Inspectorate;
13. Studying and approving collaboration with other political parties;
Article 17:
The General Assembly at Provincial/Kigali City level comprises members in the following categories:
1. The RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committee at Provincial/ Kigali City level;
2. Kigali City Executive Committee;
3. Kigali City Council Bureau;
4. Provincial Governor;
5. Executive Secretary at Provincial/Kigali City level;
6. Directors at Provincial/ Kigali City level;
7. RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committee at district level;
8. District Council Bureau;
9. RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committee at district level;
11. Members of the Women’s League of the RPF-INKOTANYI at Provincial/Kigali City level;
12. Chairperson of the youth League of the RPF-INKOTANYI at district level;
13. Members of the Women’s Executive Committee of the RPF-INKOTANYI at Provincial/ Kigali City level;
14. Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and Secretary of the Executive Committee of the RPF at sector level;
15. One counseUor from the RPF-INKOTANYI sector council selected according to level of responsibility;
16. Directorsofpublicandprivateinstitutions at Provincial/Kigali City level or any other agent from the institution selected by the members when the director is not a member of RPF-INKOTANYI;
17. A member representing those in the private sector at Provincial/ Kigali City level;
18. A Member representing the entrepreneurs at Provincial/ Kigali City level;
19. A member representing the handicapped at Provincial level;
20. Former RPF-INKOTANYI Chairpersons at Provincial levels or in Kigali City;
5. District Executive Secretary;
6. Directors at district level;
7. ExecutiveCommitteeofRPF-INKOTANYI Women’s League at district level;
8. ExecutiveCommitteeofRPF-INKOTANYI Youth League at district level;
9. National Youth League at district level;
10. National women’s bureau at district level;
11. Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and Secretary of the Executive Committee at sector level;
12. RPF-INKOTANYI Chairpersons at cell level;
13. Youth League Chairpersons at sector level;
14. Women’s League Chairperson at sector level;
15. Youth League Chairperson at cell level;
16. Women’s League Chairperson at cell level;
17. RPF-INKOTANYI members who are directors of public and private institutions in the district or any other agent from the institution selected by members when the director is not a member of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
18. Heads of secondary schools in the district;
19. Directors of district hospitals;
20. A member representing those in the private sector at district level;
21. A member representing entrepreneurs at district level;
22. A member representing the handicapped at district level;
23. Former RPF-INKOTANYI regional Chairpersons living in the district;
24. A member who formerly represented other members at district level;
25. A member who formerly represented other members at sector level;
26. Former permanent cadres of the RPF- INKOTANYI in the Executive Committee and at regional level living in the district;
27. A member representing former soldiers and former members of the national police in the district;
28. A member representing entrepreneurs at sector level;
29. A member representing those in the private sector at sector level;
30. A member representing the handicapped at sector level;
31. Other local administrators not mentioned in the categories described in this article living in the district;
The RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committee can invite other members when necessary.
Article 19:
The General Assembly at sector level comprises members in the following levels and categories:
1. RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committee at sector level;
2. Youth League Committee at sector level;
3. Women’s League Committee at sector level;
4. Sector Council Bureau;
5. Executive Secretary at sector level;
6. Executive Secretaries at cell level;
7. Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson and Secretary of the RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committee at cell level;
8. RPF-INKOTANYI Chairpersons at village level;
9. Youth League Chairperson at cell level;
10. Women’s League Chairperson at cell level;
11. National Youth Council bureau at sector level;
12. National women’s committee bureau at sector level;
13. Youth League Chairpersons at village level;
14. Women’s League Chairpersons at village level;
15. Heads of primary schools at sector level;
16. Heads of health centres at sector level;
17. A member representing those in the private sector at sector level;
18. A member representing entrepreneurs at sector level;
19. A member representing the handicapped at sector level;
20. Members of the permanent RPF- INKOTANYI cadres in the Executive Committee and at regional level living in the sector;
21. One member representing former soldiers and former members of the national police at cell level;
22. Other local administrators not mentioned in the categories described in this article living in the district;
The RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committee can invite other members when necessary.
Article 20:
The General Assembly at cell level comprises members in the following levels and categories:
1. RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committee at cell level;
2. Youth League Committee at cell level;
3. Women’s League Committee at cell level;
4. Executive Committee at cell level;
5. Executive Secretary at cell level;
6. RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committee at village level;
7. Executive Committee at village level;
8. Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson and Secretary of the RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committee at village level;
9. Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson and Secretary of the RPF-INKOTANYI Youth League at village level;
10. A member representing those in the private sector at cell level;
12. A member representing the handicapped at cell level;
13. Members of the permanent RPF-INKOTANYI cadres in the Executive Committee and at regional level at the cell;
14. One member representing former soldiers and former members of the national police at cell level;
15. Other local administrators not mentioned in the categories described in this article at cell level;
The RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committee can invite other members when necessary.
Article 21:
The General Assembly at village level comprises all members living in the villages.
Article 22:
The main responsibilities of the RPF- INKOTANYI General Assembly from the
Provincial/Kigali City level to the village level are as follows:
1. Electing members of the Executive Committee;
2. Approving the plan of action and monitoring its implementation;
3. Supervising implementation of the annual budget;
4. Establishment of a Disciplinary Committee and to taking of decisions regarding the conduct of members;
5. Organizing and monitoring the activity and functioning of subsidiary levels;
6. Receiving Inspection reports and making decisions regarding them;
7. Approving activity reports and allocation of funds;
SECTION II
POLITICAL BUREAU
Article 23:
The Political Bureau at national level comprises members at the following levels:
1. The RPF-INKOTANYI National Executive Committee;
2. Highrankingofficials: Ministers,Provincial Governors, Mayor of Kigali, members of parliament, Secretary Generals and others at that level, Institution directors, Executive Secretaries at Provincial/ Kigali City level;
3. RPF-INKOTANYI Chairperson at Provincial/ Kigali City level;
4. One member representing members living in a foreign country;
5. Directors of Institutions and Executive Secretaries at Provincial/ Kigali City level;
6. Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson and Secretary of the RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committee at cell level;
7. District Administrators;
8. Chairperson of the RPF-INKOTANYI Women’s League at Provincial/ Kigali City level;
9. Chairperson of the RPF-INKOTANYI Youth League at Provincial/Kigali City level;
10. A member elected to head the Women’s League at Provincial level or Kigali City and at national level or a member on the Provincial Executive Committee based on his/her level of responsibility where the Provincial head is not a member of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
11. A member elected to head the Youth League at Provincial level or Kigali City and at national level or a member on the Provincial Executive Committee based on his/her level of responsibility where the Provincial head is not a member of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
12. Two members representing demobilized soldiers and former members of the national police.
The RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committee can invite other members when necessary.
Article 24:
The main obligations of the RPF-INKOTANYI Political Bureau at national level are as follows:
a) Evaluating the Political Programme, activities and functioning of the Executive Committee at Provincial/Kigali City level and at national level;
b) Supervising the functioning and conduct of members;
c) Making provisional resolutions for the RPF-INKOTANYI Chairpersons at national level and at Provincial/Kigali City level;
d) Preparation of periodic action plans for the RPF-INKOTANYI;
e) Evaluating the projected RPF- INKOTANYI budgets;
f) Evaluating the report on allocation of resources of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
g) Nominating RPF-INKOTANYI candidates to campaign for government administration positions;
h) Evaluate, approve, modify or disapprove decisions made at subsidiary levels;
i) Approving appointed members of the Executive Committee;
j) Supervising the functioning of the RPF-INKOTANYI and establishing a Inspectorate to carry out this task;
k) Receiving and evaluating reports of the RPF-INKOTANYI Inspectorate;
1) Assuming the responsibilities of the RPF- INKOTANYI Congress when it is unable to convene;
SECTION III
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Article 25:
The National Executive Committee is made up of the following:
a) Chairperson;
b) Vice-Chairperson;
c) Secretary General;
d) Commissioners
The number of Commissioners is determined by the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress before it elects a National Executive Committee;
Article 26:
The Executive Committee from national to village level is made up of the following:
a) Chairperson;
b) Vice-Chairperson;
c) Secretary;
d) Heads of Commissions;
Article 27:
The main obligations of the RPF-INKOTANYI Executive Committees at all levels are as follows:
a) Implementation of the resolutions of the General Assembly, the Political Bureau, and the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress;
b) Coordination of RPF-INKOTANYI activities at that level;
c) Manage and evaluate the activities and functioning of its respective subsidiary levels;
d) Preparing action plans for the General Assembly, the Political Bureau and the Congress;
e) Monitoring the performance of leaders at that level and making temporary decisions regarding those who do not fulfil their obligations;
f) Appointing provisional replacements for those unable to carry on with their duties due to various reasons;
g) Employing personnel;
h) Preparing and presenting reports to the General Assembly, the Political Bureau, and the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress;
Specifically, the National Executive Committee has to prepare the budget and reports on its implementation.
Article 28:
The National Executive Committee has directorates known as RPF-INKOTANYI Commissions.
Article 29:
RPF-INKOTANYIcommissionsareestablish ed and dissolved by the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress.
Article 30:
The nature, organization, and obligations of the commissions are governed by the RPF-INKOTANYI Internal Regulations.
CHAPTER 2: OBLIGATIONS OF RPF-INKOTANYI LEADERS AT THE VARIOUS LEVELS
Article 31:
The obligations of the Chairperson of the RPF- INKOTANYI are:
a) To manage and coordinate RPF- INKOTANYI activities;
b) To convene and Chair meetings of the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress, the Political Bureau, and the National Executive Committee;
c) To ensure the implementation of resolutions made by the Executive Committee, the Political Bureau, and the Congres;
d) To present reports to the RPF- INKOTANYI Congress and the Political Bureau;
e) To represent the RPF-INKOTANYI in Rwanda and abroad;
f) To ensure good relations between the RPF-INKOTANYI and other political parties and governments
Article 32:
The RPF-INKOTANYI Chairperson is the legal representative of the RPF-INKOTANYI in Rwanda. Inhis/herabsencethe Vice-Chairperson will assume the duties of the Chairperson. In the absence of both the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson the Secretary General will assume the duties of the Chairperson.
Article 33:
The duties of the Vice-Chairperson of the RPF-INKOTANYI are:
a) Assisting in the duties of the Chairperson of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
b) Replacing the Chairperson in his/her absence;
c) Ensuring other tasks assigned by the Chairperson or the Executive Committee.
Article 34:
The obligations of the Secretary General of the RPF-INKOTANYI are:
a) Coordinating and monitoring the activities of the commissions and committees established by the RPF- INKOTANYI Congress, the Political Bureau, and all other levels of the RPF- INKOTANYI;
b) ImplementationofthePoliticalProgramme of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
c) Heading the General Secretariat of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
d) Conveying the resolutions of the Executive Committee and the Political Bureau to the lower levels and ensuring their implementation;
e) Arranging meetings of the Executive Committee, the Political Bureau, and Congress of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
f) Ensuring that responsibilities of Secretary and writer in meetings of the executive, the Political Bureau, and Congress of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
g) Evaluating and acting in response to reports submitted the various levels of the RPF-INKOTANYI subject to the Chairperson’s approval;
h) Ensuring other tasks assigned by the Chairperson; The Secretary General of the RPF-INKOTANYI shall not combine his duties with any other form of employment.
Article 35:
The responsibilities of the Commissioners are:
a) To collaborate with members of the National Executive Committee in the implementation of their obligations;
b) To collaborate with members of the National Executive Committee in studying allproblemsfacedbytheRPF-INKOTANYI and seeking solutions to them;
c) Ensuring all tasks assigned to them by the National Executive Committee;
The obligations of a Commissioner heading a commission or committee established by the Congress, the Political Bureau or National Executive Committee:
d) His/her respective Representing commission or committee in the Executive Committee, the Political Bureau, and Congress of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
e) Organizing and coordinating the activities of the commission or committee he/she represents;
f) Convening and Chairing meetings of the commission or committee he/she represents;
g) Consulting the RPF-INKOTANYI regarding the commission or committee he/ she represents;
h) Preparing strategic plans for the National Executive Committee regarding the commission or committee he/she represents;
i) Supervising the functioning of the members of the commission or committee he/ she represents;
j) Preparing reports for the commission or committee and presenting them to the Secretary General.
Article 36:
The obligations of the Executive Committee Chairpersons from Provincial/Kigali City level to village level are:
a) To manage and organize activities of the RPF-INKOTANYI at that level;
b) To convene and Chair meetings of the Executive Committee and meetings of the General Assembly;
c) Representing the RPF-INKOTANYI at that level;
d) Representing that level in meetings of the RPF-INKOTANYI that he/she is invited to;
e) Presenting activity reports of the Executive Committee to other levels of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
f) Ensuring the resolutions made by the Executive Committee, the Political Bureau, and the General Assembly of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
Article 37:
The obligations of the Executive Committee Vice-Chairpersons from Provincial/Kigali City level to village level are:
a) Assisting in the duties of the Chairperson of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
b) Replacing the Chairperson in his/her absence;
c) Ensuring other tasks assigned by the Chairperson or the Executive Committee.
Article 38:
The obligations of the Executive Committee Secretary from Provincial/Kigali City level to village level are:
a) Writing minutes of the meeting;
b) Keeping records of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
c) Ensuring that correspondence that requires reply is answered
d) Replacing the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson in their absence;
Article 39:
The obligations of the heads of commissions from Provincial/Kigali City to village level are:
a) Managing and organizing the activities of the commission he/she represents ;
b) To convene and Chair meetings of the commission he/she represents;
c) Preparing and presenting activity reports of the commission to the Chairperson;
d) Preparing strategic plans of the commission he/she represents for the Executive Committee;
e) ConsultingwiththeExecutiveCommittee regarding the commission he/ she represents;
CHAPTER 3: RPF-INKOTANYI LEAGUES
Article 40:
The RPF-INKOTANYI has the following leagues:
a) Youth League of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
b) Women’s League of the RPF- INKOTANYI;
Article 41:
The RPF-INKOTANYI Congress can approve
The establishment of other leagues representing other groups of Rwandans.
Article 42:
The leagues follow the agenda and policy of the RPF-INKOTANYI and carry out their activities under the respective RPF- INKOTANYI levels.
Article 43:
With the exception of the provisions of Articles 41 and 42:
a) RPF-INKOTANYI affiliate organizations are autonomous but their nature and functioning is based on the ideals and goals of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
b) The leadership and activities of the Leagues are determined by their members basing on their own constitution;
Article 44:
The dissolution of an affiliate organization of RPF-INKOTANYI is decided upon by the Congress of RPF-INKOTANYI.
CHAPTER 4: SPECIAL ORGANS
SECTION I
THE INSPECTORATE
Article 45:
The Congress of RPF-INKOTANYI and the General Assembly at other levels are in charge of inspection through the members of the Inspectorate at each level.
Article 46:
The Inspectorate consists of three persons, the Inspector General and two Deputy Inspector Generals. They are elected by the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress and the General Assembly.
Members of the Inspectorate are selected from RPF-INKOTANYI members known to have exemplary capacity, skill, diligence, integrity, prudence, and ability to perform their duties independently.
Article 47:
The Inspectorate is a technical organ that carries out inspection activities with full autonomy.
Article 48:
The obligations of the Inspectorate are:
a) To monitor the functioning of the RPF- INKOTANYI and the management of its resources;
b) To verify the implementation of the political programme and to consult with the RPF-INKOTANYI regarding methodology;
c) Presenting reports annually and whenever necessary to the organ that elected them.
SECTION II
THE DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE
Article 49:
The Disciplinary Committee is an organ established by the Congress and the General
Assembly to carry out the task of monitoring the conduct of members and resolving conflicts and disputes that may arise between them.
The Disciplinary Committee is of two types:
a) The permanent Disciplinary Committee established by the General Assembly or the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress in order to constantly monitor the conduct of members;
b) The ad hoc Disciplinary Committee established by the General Assembly, the Political Bureau or the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress in order to handle special cases of misconduct.
Article 50:
The obligations of the Disciplinary Committee are:
a) Tomonitorandmakedecisionsregarding the conduct of members that violate the constitution of the RPF-INKOTANYI or any other laws and regulations of the RPF-INKOTANYI;
b) Setting up measures that encourage the members to avoid misconduct and measures to prevent misconduct;
c) To resolve mistakes made by members, with the spirit of promoting unity in the RPF-INKOTANYI;
d) Studying and resolving any conflicts that may arise between members.
Article 51:
Members of the permanent Disciplinary Committee are elected by the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress and General Assembly.
At national level, the Disciplinary Committee is composed of five individuals including a Commissioner from the RPF-INKOTANYI National Executive Committee, who heads the committee.
Individuals elected into the Disciplinary Committee must be known to possess honesty, prudence and integrity.
PART 4
RPF-INKOTANYI LEADERS
Article 52:
A leader is any individual whose duties give him responsibility over others, whether appointed or elected.
Article 53:
Without exceeding the authority each one is given by this constitution, leaders at all levels of the RPF-INKOTANYI shall work together to fulfil the duties assigned to those levels.
Article 54:
Members of the National Executive Committee are elected by the RPF-INKOTANYI
Congress. However, in order for all members of the RPF-INKOTANYI to feel represented in this Executive Committee and for it to have the required knowledge and ability some commissioners may be appointed into the committee. The number of appointees is approved by the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress.
Members of the Executive Committees at other levels are elected by the General Assembly.
Article 55:
All leadership posts are filled through elections with the exception of the case described in Article 54.
Article 56:
Elected RPF-INKOTANYI leaders have a mandate of four years. There is no limit to the number of mandates for which an individual is eligible.
Article 57:
RPF-INKOTANYI leaders are subject to the Internal Regulations.
Article 58:
A leader shall leave his/her post due to:
a) Resignation or expiration of mandate;
b) Removal from the post due to failure in the fulfilment of his/her obligations;
c) Loss of the qualities for which he/ she was elected or appointed;
d) Death;
Article 59:
In the event that the Chairperson of the RPF-INKOTANYI leaves his/her post before completion of the mandate, the Vice- Chairperson shall provisionally assume the position of Chairperson. The Vice-Chairperson shall be required to convene an extra-ordinary meeting of the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress that shall vote a new Chairperson within a period not exceeding three months.
In the event that the Vice-Chairperson of the RPF-INKOTANYI leaves his/her post before completion of the mandate, the Chairperson shall be required to convene an extra-ordinary meeting of the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress that shall vote a new Vice-Chairperson within a period not exceeding three months.
In the event that the RPF-INKOTANYI Secretary General leaves his/her post before completion of the mandate, the National Executive Committee will appoint one of the Commissioners to provisionally replace the Secretary General, the Chairperson shall be required to convene an extra-ordinary meeting of the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress that shall vote a new Secretary General within a period not exceeding three months.
In the event that a Commissioner or Inspector leaves his/her post before the completion of the mandate, the Political Bureau will appoint a replacement within a period not exceeding six months.
When leaders at other levels are forced to leave their post before the completion of the mandate, the organ that elected them will elect a replacement within a period not exceeding six months.
Article 60:
Appointed RPF-INKOTANYI leaders are removed by the organ that appointed them.
PART 5
RPF-INKOTANYI MEETINGS
Article 61:
RPF-INKOTANYI organs shall hold ordinary meetings and extra-ordinary meetings.
Article 62:
Ordinary meetings of the General Assembly and RPF-INKOTANYI Congress shall convene twice a year.
Article 63:
The Political Bureau shall hold an ordinary meeting every four months and an extraordinary meeting whenever necessary.
Article 64:
Ordinary meetings of the Executive Committees at all levels shall convene once every 15 days.
Article 65:
Extra-ordinary meetings of RPF-INKOTANYI organs shall convene whenever necessary after being convened by the Chairperson of the organ of his own accord or when requested by Vi of the members of that organ.
Article 66:
Convening, preparation, and procedure of meetings of the RPF-INKOTANYI are governed by the Internal Regulations.
Article 67:
Decisions are made based on consensus among those present in the meeting. In case this fails, the decisions are made by majority vote of the members of the organ.
Article 68:
All RPF-INKOTANYI organs shall prepare reports of their meetings and present them to the level above.
PART 6
RPF-INKOTANYI RESOURCES
Article 69:
The sources of RPF-INKOTANYI resources are:
a) Contributions from members;
b) Bequests and inheritance;
c) Assets and income-generating activities;
d) Government subsidies;
Article 70:
Management of RPF-INKOTANYI resources is ensured following the regular laws governing Government resource management.
PART 7
TRANSITIONAL PROVISIONS AND CONCLUSION
Article 71:
RPF-INKOTANYI leaders shall continue to perform their duties until they are replaced following the provisions of the constitution.
Article 72:
The RPF-INKOTANYI can collaborate, sign agreements or create other political parties provided this does not interfere with its Political Programme.
Article 73:
This constitution are amended by the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress when approved by at least 4/5 of its members.
Article 74:
The RPF-INKOTANYI can be dissolved by approval of the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress in an extra-ordinary meeting convened to that effect. The decision is made by a majority vote of at least 4/5 of the Congress.
Article 75:
In the event that the RPF-INKOTANYI is dissolved, its resources shall be transferred to the political party that replaces it or any other non-profit organization approved by the RPF- INKOTANYI Congress.
Article 76:
The RPF-INKOTANYI shall be governed by the provisions of this constitution above all and they nullify all previous contrary provisions.
For whatever is not provided for in this constitution, reference shall be made to the law governing political parties and the RPF- INKOTANYI Internal Regulations.
Article 77:
This revised version of the RPF-INKOTANYI constitution shall take effect on the date of its signature by members in the RPF-INKOTANYI Congress. The effective date is 2/6/2007.