The Constitution of AKEL
THE CONSTITUTION OF AKEL
CHARACTER AND AIMS
ARTICLE 1.
1. The Progressive Party of the Working People – AKEL is a pioneering political party of the working class and the working people of Cyprus. It was created on April 14, 1941 and constitutes a continuation of the Communist Party of Cyprus whose founding Conference was held on August 15th, 1926, in Limassol.
2. AKEL is the highest organization of the working class and of the working people. It has been created by the voluntary union of workers, office workers, peasants, professionals, artisans, scientists, intellectuals and other working people, of men and women, of every nationality, all of whom are struggling against every kind of exploitation and repression and who aim to improve the life of the people and to create a society of democratic and humane socialism in Cyprus.
3. AKEL is closely committed to the cause of the working class and of the working people and it enriches its heritage of political, liberation and social struggles – a heritage that beautifies the history of our people.
4. In its activity AKEL is guided by Marxism-Leninism which develops with the endless progress of knowledge and by economic and political evolution.
5. AKEL draws its strength from its ideological, political and organizational cohesion, from the functioning of party democracy, from its collective work, the conscious participation and action of its members and from the constant enhancement and strengthening of its bonds with the working people and the Cypriot people generally.
6. AKEL’s ultimate aim is the creation of a democratic and humane socialism, of an advanced society based on peace and freedom, on political and social justice and the respect of human rights. The creation of a socialist society in Cyprus will be the result of the wish of the people of Cyprus freely and democratically expressed.
7. AKEL considers the following as necessary presuppositions for social and political development: The free functioning of parties, the democratic acquisition, exercise and change of political authority, as well as changes to the constitution or to the social system, provided that such developments follow the free choice of the people through democratic and properly conducted procedures.
8. The whole action of AKEL is inspired by humanistic and democratic ideals. The Party considers that its national duties and international obligations are inseparable. The same also applies to the struggle for the solution of universal problems. AKEL, loyal to the principles of internationalist solidarity, of equal co-operation and of non-interference, actively supports – on a local and international level – the unity of action of the anti-imperialist forces, of the forces of progress, peace and socialism. AKEL educates its members in the spirit of internationalism and internationalist solidarity, with all the working peoples who are struggling against every kind of political, social and national oppression, against imperialism, neocolonialism and racism.
9. (a) In the present stage of anti-imperialist, liberation and anti-occupation struggle, AKEL is fighting for a Cyprus that will be independent, sovereign, federal, non-aligned and demilitarized, free from foreign troops, settlers and bases: for a Cyprus where all its people, Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, Maronites, Armenians and Latins will live in peace and brotherhood to build the happy future of their common motherland.
AKEL is struggling for the protection and achievement of world peace, for democracy, for the protection of human and political rights, for the promotion of the interests of the working class and of all the workers of the towns and of the countryside, for their protection against economic, social and intellectual repression.
(b) In the struggle to liberate Cyprus, the main enemy of the people of Cyprus is the Turkish occupation and the forces of imperialism which support it, as well as their local stooges and supporters. Against the above, a ceaseless and uncompromising struggle is being waged. The moving force behind this struggle are the workers, office workers, peasants, professionals and artisans, men of letters, the national bourgeois class -all those who have not connected their interests with the interests of the enemies of Cyprus. They are Greek Cypriots, Turkish Cypriots, Maronites, Armenians and Latins.
To achieve our anti-imperialist, liberation, anti-occupation aims of the struggle it is necessary to forge together all the moving forces into one common front. The basis of such a front will be the alliance between the urban and rural working class and workers generally. AKEL is consistently in the forefront in the struggle for the creation of this common front.
AKEL considers that the rapprochement of Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots is an integral part of this common front and consistently struggles for its achievement and development.
(c) AKEL is fighting for the creation of an advanced democratic society whose main characteristics are:
– The rule of Law, democratic and based on popular sovereignty, on human rights and meritocracy, modern and effective.
– A state that will be independent and sovereign, whose policy will be non-aligned and based on International Law and on the policy of peace, friendship and co-operation with all the peoples of the world. – Economic policy for development based on a mixed modern economy that will be at the service of the people and the country, that will respect and protect the natural environment.
– Social policy that will guarantee a continuous improvement of the people’s living standards, health, education and sport.
– Cultural policy that will ensure intellectual and artistic creation and that will respect our country’s and our people’s cultural heritage.
10. AKEL, in its daily struggle, takes part, with patriotic consistency, in the fight for freedom, democracy, for the defense of peace and in support of social justice and well-being.
With its many-sided contacts with the working people and the people. AKEL will be able to learn from the people’s experience and knowledge, so that it will successfully carry out its political and social struggles that will thus always make it the most pioneering force in Cyprus
MEMBERSHIP – RIGHTS – DUTIES
ARTICLE 2.
A member of AKEL can become any permanent resident of Cyprus and any Cypriot who resides in a country where an AKEL Organization exists, provided he accepts the principles and the Constitution of the Party.
ARTICLE 3. ENTRY TO THE PARTY
Entry to the party takes place individually and voluntarily. The members of the Party come from among the workers, office workers, peasants, professionals, artisans, scientists, intellectuals and other working people both men and women, of any national origin, people noted for their social activity. The entry to the Party must be supported by two Party members who know the prospective member well. Decision is taken by the Party Base Group (P.B.G.) by a majority vote, the body immediately above is informed, and the member then receives his party card.
If the P.B.G. rejects the prospective member, those who have supported him/her can apply to the higher Party bodies asking for a re-examination of the application, beginning with the body immediately above.
– Ordinary members from other political organizations or parties can become members of AKEL only upon the approval of the District Committee (DC). Leading cadres from other political organizations or parties, as well as personalities involved in politics, can become members of AKEL only with the approval of the Central Committee (CC). The organs concerned are informed accordingly.
– An AKEL member cannot belong to any other political party or political organization.
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ARTICLE 4. THE RIGHTS OF A MEMBER
All members of AKEL have equal rights. Every member has the right to:
1. Take part freely in the discussion for the working out of the Party’s political line, the Party’s tactics and the formulation of decisions.
2. To express freely his beliefs within the Party Organization and bodies he belongs to and within the bodies he takes part in, on any issue under discussion as well as on the activities of any member or cadre or of a guiding Party organ. And to freely exercise criticism.
3. Take part in the election of the Guiding Organs of the Party, and be elected to such bodies.
4. Apply, on party and other matters, to the relevant guiding party organ right up to the Central Committee and the Central Control Committee (CCC), and to receive an answer within the space of time not exceeding two months.
5. Be informed timely, adequately and objectively through the Party Base Organizations with regard to the activities and decisions of the Party.
6. Be informed timely, adequately and objectively within the Party Base Organizations with regard to issues he is called upon to discuss and take decisions on, as well as concerning the results of such discussion.
7. Take part in meetings of the Party organs or organizations where decisions are taken concerning his activities and conduct.
8. Freely leave the Party.
ARTICLE 5. OBLIGATIONS OF A MEMBER
All AKEL members have equal obligations. Every member has the obligation to:
1. Observe the constitution and Party Regulations and struggle for the successful implementation of its Program.
2. Belong and work in one of the P.B.Gs and pay his dues.
3. Respect the decisions of the Party, consciously obey and take part in Party activities and implement in practice its policies and tactics.
4. Safeguard and strengthen the unity of the Party, protect and shield the Party under any circumstances.
5. Act and conduct himself in a manner that will strengthen the influence and the prestige of the Party.
6. Maintain strong links with the workers and the working people in his own environment. Develop a pioneering role in their everyday problems and their activities.
7. Belong to his professional organization. Must struggle to enlighten the working people and to make them members of their professional or other mass organization, always showing respect for the independence, the program and the character of such organizations.
8. Improve his ideological background, develop his political abilities, respect criticism and make self criticism in the event of any mistakes or inadequacies made by him.
9. Observe and defend the principles of meritocracy, justice and morality.
10. Inform his P.B.G in the event of a change of residence or place of work. Moving from one P.B.G. to another is done when the member informs his Party Organization.
ORGANIZATIONAL PRINCIPLES
ARTICLE 6.
The Party organization structure and function is based on democratic centralism, with democracy being constantly developed. The ideas of democratic centralism, enriched by experience and the new political thinking, ensure:
1. Full democracy within the Party
2. Unified line and leadership
3. Conscious discipline
1. Inner Party democracy is ensured:
a) With the right every party member has for active participation in the shaping and implementation of the line and tactics of the party, and for the working out of his theoretical concept.
b) With his participation in the free, sincere discussion on the problems, the existing conditions, the guiding lines and the activities of the Party. These discussions take place in the meetings of the various Party bodies and Organizations.
c) With the public expression of his views through the Party Press within the framework of a public dialogue organized by the Party on serious matters that concern its policies. This public dialogue will be announced by the C.C. and by other guiding Party bodies. A public dialogue will also take place on a specific issue when such a dialogue is asked for through the P.B.G. by at least 1/3 of the total Party membership. It is concluded when a decision is taken which will be binding an every Party member.
d) With the respect of the various ideas expressed, with the right to disagree and submit proposals. The aims to ensure the personal contribution in the collective attempt to develop initiative and the taking of decisions in all the fields of activity by the Party bodies and organizations.
e) With the right every Party member has to take an active part in the appointment and election of guiding organs, and with his right to be elected on these bodies.
f) With the right enjoyed by P.B.G. for timely, adequate and objective information.
g) With the obligation that all guiding bodies have to be answerable, at fixed periods, to the organizations that elected them and to pay particular attention to the views expressed.
h) With the right the party member has to make free criticism, to exercise constructive control as to the correctness of decisions taken and to their implementation as well as with his right to point out weaknesses and inadequacies which concern party organizations, cadres and members. Criticism and self-criticism – collective or individual – must, on every occasion be substantive, responsible and objective.
I) With the right enjoyed by every member to bring up again an issue for discussion by the Party organs, if new data emerge that will justify its re-examination.
j) With the recourse to the totality of the Party membership by the C.C. or by other guiding organs on serious issues under discussion. The ideas of the totality of the members is taken seriously into account in the taking of a decision.
k) With the recourse to the totality of the Party membership by the C.C. or by other guiding organs in cases where, though decisions have been taken, they consider it necessary to refer to the party membership. In this case they put before the members the most prevalent ideas and their percentage support.
2. Unified line and leadership is ensured:
a) With the union of all Party Organizations into one cohesive unity which acts as united whole.
b) With the undertaking by every lower body, Party Organization and all Party members, within the framework and in accordance with the provisions of the constitution, to implement the decisions of the higher bodies.
c) With the enlisting of the activities of all Party Organizations under one unified center – the C.C. – which is the highest body in the period between two Congresses.
3. Conscious discipline is ensured:
a) With the acceptance and observation of the organization principles and constitutional provisions of the Party.
b) With the respect for the decisions taken by the Party organs, those that disagree obey the decisions and work for their implementation. The setting up of organized groups or tendencies which act outside the structure or organization of the Party and outside Party discipline and which develop action round their own views or political platforms constitute factional activity and is not allowed within the Party.
c) With the strength of party discipline for all members irrespective of the organization or body to which they belong. All party bodies have a collective guiding responsibility without this freeing each one from personal responsibility. A party member upholds collective action in the functioning of the Party and rejects high handedness, favoritism and the cult of the personality. The above three constituent elements of democratic centralism constitute a unified, indivisible entity and ensure the unity, cohesion and effectiveness of the Party.
ORGANIZATIONAL SET UP
ARTICLE 7.
The highest guiding organ of AKEL is the Congress which elects the Central Committee (C.C.) and the Central Control Committee (C.C.C.) of the Party.
The highest guiding organ of the Party Organization of the District is the District Conference which elects the District Committee (D.C.).
The highest guiding organ of the Town Organization is the Town Conference which elects the Town Committee (T.C.).
The highest guiding organ of the Rural Area Organization is the Rural Area Conference which elects the Rural Area Committee (R.A.C.).
The highest organization of the Party Organization of the Area is the Area Conference which elects the Area Committee (A.C).
The highest guiding organ of the Party Organization of the borough -in town and country – is the Conference of the Organization which elects the secretary and the Borough Committee (B.C.).
The organization organ of the Party Base Group – in both town and country – is the Annual General Assembly which elects the Secretary and the Office bearers of the Party Base Group (P.B.G.).
ARTICLE 8.
ELECTION OF GUIDING BODIES
a) The Party guiding bodies and the officials are elected by secret ballot. The procedure of election is carried out in accordance with Party Regulations. Results, for each body, are announced in order of success.
b) A valid vote is one on which 80% – 100% of the total members of the relevant body have been voted for.
c) The various elected bodies form a quorum when 50% of their members are in attendance.
d) For the daily promotion of its activities each party body – except the office of the P.B.G. – elects, from among its members, its Secretariat which is answerable to the Plenary Session of its body.
ARTICLE 9.
The number of members of the C.C. and the C.C.C. is decided by the Congress, on the suggestion of the outgoing C.C. and the C.C.C. respectively.
The number of members of the D.C. is decided by the District Conference at the suggestion of the outgoing D.C.
The number of members of the Town Committees, the Rural Area Committees and of the Area Committees is decided by the corresponding Conferences at the suggestion of the respective bodies.
The number of members of the Borough Committee is decided by the Conference of the Party Organization of the Borough at the suggestion of the B.C.
The number of the members of the Bureau of the P.B.G. is decided by the Assembly of the Party Base Group.
The C.C. and the D.C. have the right – in exceptional cases – to co-opt a limited number of cadres which does not exceed 5% of their total membership and who were not originally candidates for the above bodies. The members so co-opted have all the rights of the members of the respective body.
ARTICLE 10.
All Party Organizations have the immediate responsibility for the facing of the problems of the area or their place of work, within the framework of the political line, the tactics and the decisions of the Party.
For purposes of guidance, for the promotion of decisions and for the study of specialized topics, Party Organizations convene conferences of cadres. Such conferences have an advisory and informative character.
ARTICLE 11.
SUPPLEMENTARY OFFICES
a) The C.C. and the D.Cs elect supplementary offices for the study of various issues, for the working out and the submission of suggestions and proposals, and for the practical implementation of decisions made by the guiding organs of the Party.
b) Similar professional offices are elected by Meetings of the respective party unit both on a local and a central level.
All such offices function within the framework defined by the corresponding bodies and are answerable to them.
THE HIGHER ORGANS OF THE PARTY
ARTICLE 12.
THE CONGRESS
1. The Congress is the highest organ of the Party. It forms a quorum when 60% of the elected representatives are in attendance. A Regular Congress is convened by the C.C. every five years. An Extra-ordinary Congress is convened (a) by decision of the C.C. (b) When 1/3 of the C.C. members resign (c) When it is asked by 1/3 of the total of the party membership through the Party Organization. In that case the C.C. is obliged, within two months, to convene an Extra-ordinary Congress. If the C.C. refuses to do so, the organizations that have asked for such a Congress are entitled to create an organization committee which will undertake to call and organize the said extra-ordinary congress.
2. The ways of representation in the Congress and election of delegates is regulated by the C.C. according to the Party Regulations. The delegates to the Congress are elected by the P.B.Gs by secret ballot. They must have at least three years of continuous and active Party life.
The newly created P.B.Gs are represented on the Congress and they are not bound by the condition for party age.
– The members of the outgoing C.C. and the C.C.C. are considered to be delegates.
3. The candidates for the C.C. and the C.C.C. are elected by secret ballot by the P.B.G. They must have at least 7 years of continuous and active party life. The procedure for their election is in accordance with the Party Regulations.
The members of the outgoing C.C. and the C.C.C. are considered to be candidates provided they have been elected by the P.B.G. to which they belong.
4. The Congress of AKEL:
a) Carries out discussions and decides on the report and statement of action or on the thesis of the C.C. and the C.C.C. as well as on the audited economic report which refers to the Party central fund.
b) Amends the Program, the Constitution and the Regulations for the Functioning of the Party.
c) Lays down the general political line and the tactics of the Party.
d) Elects the C.C. and the C.C.C. of the Party which are answerable to the Congress for their work.
e) The decisions of the Congress are taken by an absolute majority or by a relative majority when there are more than two proposals.
Decisions are taken by an open vote unless the Congress decides otherwise.
The work of the Congress is carried out in accordance with the Party Regulations.
ARTICLE 13.
THE C.C.
1. The C.C. guides the work of the party in the period between two Congresses, on the basis of the Program, the Constitution, the general political line and tactics and of the decisions of the Congress.
2. The C.C. after the election meets in plenary session during the Congress and elects the General Secretary from among its own members. In a subsequent session which takes place not later than 15 days later the C.C. elects, from among its members, the members of the Political Bureau (P>B>) and the members of the Secretariat of the C.C.
The members of the Presidium of the Congress who have been elected on the C.C., led by the elected G.C. of the C.C. are responsible for party work in the period between election of the various bodies.
3. The Plenary session of the C.C. meets regularly once every 4 months and extraordinarily when the P.B. deems it necessary, or when it is asked for in written by 1/3 of its members.
4. The C.C., in serious cases, convenes Pan-Cyprian Conferences which are attended by the members of the C.C. and the C.C.C., and by representatives of the District Organizations. The representation of the District Organizations is decided in accordance with Party Regulations and the Congress model. In exceptional cases they are represented by all their elected bodies, i.e. the D.C., the T.C., R.A.C., A.C., B.C., Secretaries and P.B.Gs’ bureau
ARTICLE 14.
THE POLITICAL BUREAU OF THE C.C.
1. The Political Bureau (P.B.) directs the work of the Party in the period between the two plenary sessions of the C.C. It deals with all matters that interest the Party. It is answerable for its actions to the C.C. and gives account for its work at every regular plenary session. The number of members of the P.B. is specified by the C.C. and does not exceed 1/5 of its members.
2. The P.B. meets at least every 15 days in regular meetings and extraordinarily when it is deemed necessary by the Secretariat of the C.C. or when it is asked in written by 1/3 of its members.
3. The P.B. represents the Party in its relations with other parties and organizations at home and abroad, as well as in its relations with the government and other bodies.
ARTICLE 15.
THE SECRETARIAT OF THE C.C.
The Secretariat of the C.C. promotes the implementation of the decisions of the C.C. and the P.B. and deals with current issues. Its members must come from among the members of the P.B. The number of its members is decided by the C.C.
ARTICLE 16.
THE CENTRAL CONTROL COMMITTEE
The C.C.C. is elected by the Congress and is answerable to it.
Its size is fixed by the Congress on the proposal of the outgoing C.C.C.
1. It controls the implementation of the decisions of the Congress and the Party C.C. as well as the implementation of the policy and tactics of the Party in various fields.
2. It controls the Party finances.
3. It apportions responsibility in the event of violation of the Program, of the Constitution or of the Regulations for the Functioning of the Party.
4. It ensures the timely examination of various cases by the central and other bodies of the Party.
5. It examines objections against decisions which relate to disciplinary measures taken by the Party Organizations and bodies.
6. At least once a year it informs the P.B. and the C.C. as well as the Party – through the C.C. – of its work. It submits a report on its work at the Party Congress.
7. Concerning the way it functions it proposes regulations which are finalized in a combined conference of the C.C. and the C.C.C. These regulations are decided finally by the Congress.
8. Its decisions are revised only by the Congress.
9. The members of the C.C.C. may belong to other elected or consultative party bodies except the C.C.
10. The members of the C.C.C. attend the meetings of the C.C. They can take part in discussion but they do not have the right to vote.
Its President also takes part in the meetings of the P.B. but does not have the right to vote.
DISTRICT ORGANIZATIONS
ARTICLE 17.
DISTRICT CONFERENCE
1. The highest organ of the District Organization is the District Conference and in the period between two Conferences the District Committee.
2. A regular Conference of the District Organization is convened by the D.C. every 4 years. An extraordinary conference is convened when: (a) the C.C. of the Party so decides (b) the D.C., with the consent of the C.C., so decides (c) 1/3 of the members of the D.C. have resigned (d) it is asked for by 1/3 of the District Party members through their Party organization. In such a case the D.C. is obliged to convene an extraordinary Conference within two months.
The District Conference forms a quorum when 60% of its elected delegates are present.
3. The District Conference discusses and takes decisions on the Report-Account of the D.C. and on the audited finance report which refers to the district funds of the Party. It also discusses the problems of the Party Organization and elects the D.C.
4. With regard to the representation and the election of delegates to the District Conference as well as the election of candidates for the D.C. the provisions of the Party Regulations are applied. The delegates must have at least 3 years continuous and active Party life. The candidates to the D.C. must have at least 5 years of continuous and active Party life. The newly created Organizations of the Base (P.B.G.) are represented on the Conference irrespective of the condition for party age.
5. Decisions by the Conference are taken in accordance with the provisions of Article 12 (paragraph 5)
The work of the Conference is conducted in accordance with the Party Regulations.
ARTICLE 18.
DISTRICT COMMITTEE –THE SECRETARIAT OF THE D.C.
1. The D.C. guides the work of the District Organization on the basis of the decisions of the Congress, the District Conference and the highest guiding bodies of the Party.
2. The D.C. meets in plenary session every three months. It can also meet extraordinarily when the Secretariat of the D.C. so decides, when P.B. of the C.C. of the Party asks for it, or when 1/3 of the D.C. members ask for it in written.
3. The D.C. meets at the latest 7 days after its election and elects, from among its members, the Secretary of the D.C., the Organization Secretary, and its Secretariat. The number of members of the Secretariat is decided by the D.C.
Responsibility for the work of the Party Organization in the period before the election of the Secretary and the D.C. Secretariat lies with the members of the Presidium who have been elected on the D.C.
4. The Secretariat of the D.C. promotes the implementation of the decisions of the highest guiding bodies of the Party and takes care of current problems related with the District Party Organization.
5. The Provisions of Article 9 apply with regard to the co-option of members to the D.C.
LOWER ORGANIZATIONS
ARTICLE 19.
TOWN COMMITTEE
1. The highest organ of the Party Town Organization is the Town Conference, and, in the period between two Town Conferences, the Town Committee.
The work of the T.C. is guided by the decisions of the Congress, the District Conference, the Town Conference and the decisions of the highest guiding organs of the Party.
2. A Regular Conference of the Town Party Organization is convened by the T.C. every 3 years, and extraordinarily when (a) the D.C. so decides, (b) the T.C. so decides with the approval of the D.C. (c) 1/3 of the members of the Town Party Organization asks for it through its Party organizations.
The Town Conference forms a quorum when 60% of the elected representatives are in attendance.
3. The way of representation and the election of delegates on the Town Conference and for the election of representatives on the Town Committee is decided in accordance with the Party Regulations. The delegates must have at least two years of party life and the candidates for the Town Committee at least three years of Party life.
4. The Conference of the Party Town Organization discusses and decides on the report of the Town Committee, on the various questions of the Town Party Organization, and elects the Town Committee, in accordance with the Party Regulations.
5. The Plenary meeting of the Town Committee meets ordinarily every three months and extraordinarily when it is deemed necessary by the Secretariat of the T.C. when the D.C. asks for it, or when 1/3 of the members of the T.C. ask for it in written.
6. The T.C. meets at the latest 7 days after its election and elects, from among its members the Secretary of the Town Committee and its Secretariat. The number of members of the secretariat is decided by the T.C.
7. The Secretariat of the T.C. promotes the decisions of the highest Party Organs, and organizes its work on the basis of the decision of the Congress, the District Conference and the Town Conference.
ARTICLE 20.
RURAL AREA COMMITTEE
1. The highest organ of the Party Rural Area Organization is the Rural Area Conference, and, in the period between two Rural Area Conferences, the Rural Area Committee.
The work of the R.A.C. is guided by the decisions of the Congress, the District Conference, the Rural Area Conference and the decisions of the highest guiding organs of the Party.
2. A Regular Conference of the Rural Area Party Organization is convened by the R.A.C. every 3 years, and extraordinarily when (a) the D.C. so decides, (b) the R.A.C. so decides with the approval of the D.C. (c) 1/3 of the members of the Rural Area Party Organization asks for it through its Party organizations.
The Rural Area Conference forms a quorum when 60% of the elected representatives are in attendance.
3. The way of representation and the election of delegates on the Rural Area Conference and for the election of candidates for the Rural Area Committee is decided in accordance with the Party Regulations. The delegates must have at least two years of party life and the candidates for the R.A.C. at least three years of Party life.
The D.C. has the right to nominate a limited number of candidates for the Rural Area Committee, irrespective of their place of residence and the P.B.G. they belong to.
4. The Conference of the Party Rural Area Organization discusses and decides on the report of the R.A.C., on the various questions of the Rural Area Party Organization, and elects the Rural Area Committee, in accordance with the Party Regulations.
5. The Plenary meeting of the Rural Area Committee meets ordinarily every three months and extraordinarily: when it is deemed necessary by the Secretariat of the R.A.C., when the D.C. asks for it, or when 1/3 of the members of the R.A.C. ask for it in written.
6. The R.A.C. meets at the latest 7 days after its election and elects, from among its members the Secretary of the R.A.C. and its Secretariat. The number of members of the Secretariat is decided by the R.A.C.
7. The Secretariat of the R.A.C. promotes the decisions of the highest Party Organs, and organizes its work on the basis of the decision of the Congress, the District Conference and the Rural Area Conference.
ARTICLE 21.
AREA COMMITTEE
1. With the responsibility and guidance of the D.C. Area Party Organizations are created which unite and guide the Party Base Groups (PBG) of a rural area.
2. The highest organ of the Area Party Organization is the Area Conference which is convened by the Area Committee every 2 years, and, in the period between two Area Conferences, the Area Committee.
In its work the Area Committee is guided by the decisions of the Congress, the District Conference, the Area Conference and of the highest guiding bodies of the Party.
3. For the functioning of the Area Committees the Provisions of Article 20 apply. The representatives on the Area Conference and the candidates for the Area Committee must have at least 2 years of party life. The number of members of the Area Committee is decided by the Area Conference upon the suggestion of the Area Committee. The procedure for the election of representatives, candidate members of the A.C. is guided by the Party Regulations.
ARTICLE 22.
BOROUGH COMMITTEE
1. On the responsibility and guidance of the D.C., the T.C., R.A.C. and the A.C. Borough Organizations are created which unite and guide the Party Base Groups of an area, neighborhood, suburb or village, or a number of similar professional groups.
2. For the purpose of guiding the Borough Organizations Borough Committees are elected. Their election is done by the General Meeting of the relevant Party Base Groups, which is convened every two years, and to which they are answerable. The number of members of the Borough Committee is decided by the Borough Assembly. Its members must have at least two years of Party life.
If considered necessary, the B.C. elects from among its members the Secretariat of the B.C. The number of its members is defined by the body itself.
PARTY BASE GROUP (P.B.G.)
ARTICLE 23.
1. The foundation of the Party are the Party Base Groups which are created in the place of work or place of residence. In exceptional cases such groups can be created out of similar occupations.
2. The decision to create a Party Base Group is taken by the Borough Committee or by the Area Committee. Such decision has to be approved by the body immediately above.
3. The P.B.G. is made up of three or more members. If the members are fewer than 3, these members are connected with the Party body that might be decided. Where the number of members and conditions justify it, more than one such group is formed.
4. Every P.B.G. with more than 10 members is guided by its Bureau, every P.B.G. smaller than 10 is guided by its Secretary. The Secretary and the members of the Bureau are elected by the P.B.G. assembly to which they are also answerable. Their tenure lasts one year. They must have at least one year party life.
5. The P.B.G. is the pioneering, guiding force in its field of action.
a) The P.B.G. contributes actively in the shaping of the Party decisions. It brings up and promotes the problems in its own area, as well as political and organizational duties. It carries out work of enlightenment, it channels and actively promotes the decisions of the Party.
b) It takes an active part in political and other activity, in the effort to organize the workers in occupational and other organizations as well as in the promotion of the duties and aims of the mass Organizations and the Party.
For the coordination of the activities in occupational or other organizations as well as in places of work, a party unit is created which meets when the bodies responsible deem it necessary.
c) The P.B.G. meets ordinarily once a month and extra-ordinarily when it is deemed necessary by its Bureau or by its Secretary – where no Bureau exists -, or when it is asked by the organ immediately above it or by 1/3 of its members in written.
MAINTENANCE OF PARTY DISCIPLINE
ARTICLE 24.
1. The members and Organizations of AKEL have the basic obligation of guarding and strengthening the cohesion and the unity of the Party. The undermining of party unity and discipline, the creation of splinter groups and factions within the Party, the conscious violation of any of the provisions of the Constitution and of the Party Regulations, are liable to disciplinary sanctions.
2. A member of the Party who opposes party decisions, violates party discipline and party ethics, undermines the prestige of a party organ or of a party cadre or takes recourse to actions that harm the Party is liable to the following sanctions, depending on the case: (a) telling off or telling off accompanied by warning (b) removal from posts held (c) temporary or indefinite suspension (d) dismissal from party.
3. Sanctions can be imposed by all party organizations. Telling off or telling off with warning can be imposed by the P.B.G. and does not need any higher approval. Removal of a party member from posts held is imposed by the organization to which he belongs and is endorsed by the organ immediately above it. Temporary or indefinite suspension and dismissal is endorsed by the T.C., R.A.C. or the A.C. or, where not such committee exists, by the D.C. If the case concerns a member of the D.C. or of the C.C. or of the C.C.C. the approval of the D.C. or of the C.C. respectively is needed.
Concerning the disciplinary sanction and the reasons which brought it about it is necessary to inform the P.B.G. to which the member belongs.
4. In cases of dismissal or withdrawal from the Party, the membership card is returned.
Party members who are suspended from the Party are obliged to pay their dues and to discipline themselves to Party decisions during the period of their suspension.
5. Persons whose actions and conduct are incompatible with their membership of the Party, and persons whose party or personal conduct are not compatible with the demands and principles of party ethics are expelled from the Party. The aim of every punishment is the strengthening of the unity, the discipline and revolutionary ethics of the Party and all its members. The taking of any decision for punishment is done with the greatest of care and comradeship.
The member is not punished for his personal views which he expresses in the Party Organs and Bodies or through the open dialogue, as provided by Article 4 (par. 2) of the Constitution.
6. For the Party Organs the sanctions can be the following: (a) reprimand within the Party (b) public reprimand (c) removal of the leadership or of all the body and their temporary substitution.
7. If the mistake has been made by an entire Party Organization the punishment may involve its dissolution or its re-structuring.
The right to dissolve or restructure a District Organization belongs to the C.C. The right to dissolve or restructure an Area Organization, a Town Organization or a Rural Area Organization belongs to the D.Cs. The right to dissolve or restructure a Borough Organ belongs to the T.C., the R.A.C.and the A.C. with the endorsement of the District Committee. The right to dissolve or restructure a Party Base Group belongs to the Party Organs immediately above. Endorsement by the District Committee is necessary.
Only the C.C. and the D.Cs have the right to communicate to the Party members or make public any disciplinary sanctions.
8. No punishment is given to any body or member of the Party before the body or member concerned is informed of the accusations made against them. They have the right to be heard and to present their case to the responsible relevant bodies.
9. An application for re-admission to the Party by an ex- member is examined and decided upon by the P.B.G. The approval of the organ immediately above is required. A re-examination of disciplinary sanctions is made by the bodies that have originally made them or by higher bodies one year after the imposition of such sanctions.
10. Every disciplinary punishment which has been imposed on a body or member may be appealed against within a month, before higher bodies up to the C.C. or the C.C.C. The higher party body must examine the appeal within a period not exceeding 2 months.
Members of the C.C. or of the C.C.C. who have been deposed, expelled or written off have the right to appeal before the Party Congress, provided they have not joined another political organization or Party.
THE FINANCES OF AKEL
ARTICLE 25.
1. The Party financial resources are (a) the membership dues, (b) various donations, contributions or grants, (c) the sale of printed matter, (d) various functions, (e) the rewards of party members who hold public offices.
2. Every party member pays dues. The lowest subscription and the way it is paid is determined by the C.C.
3. The body responsible for the finances of the Party centrally is the C.C. The C.C. Secretariat, which
controls the finances, informs the P.B. and the C.C.
The C.C. presents an audited balance sheet at the Congress which is given out to the delegates during its discussion.
4. On a District level the body responsible for the finances of the Party is the D.C. The Secretariat of
the D.C. which controls the finances, keeps the D.C. informed.
The D.C. presents an audited balance sheet at the District Conference of the Party Organization which is given out to the representatives during its discussion.
5. The C.C. and the D.Cs inform the P.B.G. every year on the Party finances.
ARTICLE 26.
PUBLIC OFFICES
1. Party members elected to public offices on the Party ticket, or are members of bodies or Councils having been nominated by the Party, develop, in the exercise of their duties, initiatives based on the policies and decisions of the Party, in order to promote the interests of the working people, and the country in general.
2. Party members neither profit nor lose financially from the assumption of such public offices.
3. The public office they hold is at the disposal of the Party.
4. The party members elected to the post of Members of Parliament form a Parliamentary Group, which is the vehicle of the Party policy in the House of Representatives. A similar procedure is followed in
the case of other party members elected to other public offices (municipalities, etc.).
ARTICLE 27.
The cadres of the Party distinguish themselves thanks to their belief in and commitment to the ideals and aims of the Party, and thanks to their abilities and their active work for the good of the working people and of the country in general. They are models of behavior, ethics, selflessness and other human qualities.
The party cadres are uncompromising on the question of preference because of friendship or family ties, and struggle against careerism. They must be honest and objective in the judgements.
ARTICLE 28.
Decisions on any subject not covered by the provisions of the Constitution or by the AKEL Regulations are taken by the C.C. in accordance with the general principles of the Party.
SYMBOLS AND HYMN
ARTICLE 29. SYMBOLS OF THE PARTY
ARTICLE 30. THE PARTY HYMN
It is the poetic and musical composition of the poet Tefkros Anthias of 1941, entitled “THE AKEL HYMN”
The Constitution of AKEL was approved by the Pancyprian Party Conference (April 1946).
It was subsequently amended at the: 10th Congress (March 1962).
The Pancyprian Conference (28 Jan. 1968).
The 15th Congress (13-16 May 1982).
The 16th Congress (26-30 November 1986).
The 17th Congress (3-7 October 1990).
The 18th Congress (16-19 November 1995).