HOCUSA CONSTITUTION
Transcript of HOCUSA CONSTITUTION
H O C U S A C o n s t i t u t i o n _ S e p t e m b e r _ 2 0 1 4
HOMABAY COUNTY STUDENTS ASSOCIATION
(HOCUSA)
THE CONSTITUTION
HOMA BAY COUNTY STUDENTS ASSOCIATION
(HOCUSA) TOGETHER WE STAND TOGETHER WE GROW
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First produced May, 2014
Second draft August 2014 by HOCUSA Constitution Review
Committee
First Edition September 2014
Second Edition December 2014
HOCUSA CONSTITUTIONAL COMMITTEE,
HOCUSA,
Homa Bay County Main Office,
Contact
P.O BOX 290, Homa Bay, Kenya.
0720988556
[email protected] /[email protected]
This Constitution is created, written, reviewed and produced
by the HOCUSA Constitution Review Committee under the
stewardship of Mr. Oguta Onyango.
copyright© 2014 Homa Bay County Students’ Association
(HOCUSA)
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
reproduced, stored in retrieval system, or transmitted, in any
form or by means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording, or otherwise, without the prior written consent of
HOCUSA.
©HOCUSA 2014.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The Constitution Review Committee wishes to acknowledge
the contributions made by all the founder members towards
the process of formulating, writing and producing this
Constitution. These numerous efforts enabled the effective
production of the First Constitution of HOCUSA.
We also wish to express our gratitude to the members who
saw us fit to handle this crucial document of the Association.
We thank the Almighty God who gave us the strength to do
the work we did with honesty, sincerity and in good faith to
the Association.
OGUTA ONYANGO CAVINE
CHAIRPERSON-CONSTITUTION REVIEW COMMITTEE
P.O BOX 74
KENDU-BAY, KENYA.
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ARRANGEMENT OF CHAPTERS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ................................................................... III CHAPTER I- NAME, MISSION, VISION AND FUNCTIONS ..........................1 1. NAME .........................................................................................1 2. MISSION STATEMENT ............................................................1 3. TRUSTEES .................................................................................3 4. STATEMENT OF OBJECT AND FUNCTIONS .......................4 5. PRINCIPAL PLACE OF ADMINISTRATION ..........................8 CHAPTER II MEMBERSHIP ............................................................. 10 6. CATEGORY OF MEMBERS ................................................... 10 7. MEMBERSHIP FEES ............................................................... 13 8. MEMBERS RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS ........................... 15 9. REGISTER OF MEMBERS AND OFFICIALS ....................... 16 CHAPTER III OFFICERS ................................................................... 20 10. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL OFFICERS ............ 20 11. OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION ....................................... 21 12. PRINCIPLES OF LEADERSHIP .............................................. 29 13. FUNCTIONS, ROLES AND DUTIES OF THE OFFICERS .... 29 14. THE ASSOCIATION CHAIRPERSON .................................... 30 15. THE DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON .............................................. 31 16. THE SECRETARY GENERAL (SG) ....................................... 32 17. THE FINANCE MANAGER .................................................... 33 18. THE PROJECT MANAGER ..................................................... 34 19. THE ORGANIZING SECRETARY.......................................... 35 20. THE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER .................................... 35 21. DEPUTY SECRETARY GENERAL (DSG) ............................ 36 22. THE CASE OF ABSEENTISM BY AN OFFICIAL................. 37 CHAPTER IV THE ADVISORY BOARD ......................................... 39 23. COMPOSITION OF THE ADVISORY BOARD ..................... 39 CHAPTER V ELECTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS OF OFFICIALS, TERM OF
OFFICE BEARERS AND CASUAL VACANCY ........................................... 40 24. ELECTION AND APPOINTMENT OF OFFICIALS .............. 40
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25. THE ELECTORAL BODY ....................................................... 44 26. ELECTORAL PROCEDURES ................................................. 45 27. TERM OF OFFICE HOLDERS ................................................ 46 28. CASUAL VACANCIES ............................................................ 47 29. CONDITIONS FOR CASUAL VACANCY ............................. 47 CHAPTER VI FUNCTIONS OF VARIOUS ORGANS OF HOCUSA ............. 50 30. FUNCTIONS OF THE COUNCIL AND THE SECRETARIAT
50 31. FUNCTIONS OF THE CHAIRPERSON TO THE COUNCIL 53 32. FUNCTIONS OF THE ADVISORY BOARD .......................... 53 33. FUNCTIONS OF THE BOARD’S CHAIRPERSON ............... 54 34. TERM OF OFFICE OF THE MEMBERS OF THE BOARD ... 55 CHAPTER VII MEETINGS OF THE COUNCIL, POWERS AND REMOVAL
FROM OFFICE ....................................................................................... 56 35. MEETINGS OF THE COUNCIL .............................................. 56 36. CHAIRING AND VOTING AT THE COUNCIL MEETING .. 56 37. VALIDITY OF A RESOLUTION BY THE OFFICIALS ........ 57 38. RESPONSIBILITIES OF OFFICIALS AND OFFICERS ........ 58 39. REMOVAL OF OFFICIALS .................................................... 58 40. COMMITTEES OF HOCUSA .................................................. 60 41. COMPOSITIONS AND FUNCTIONS OF COMMITTEES .... 63 CHAPTER VIII MEETINGS OF MEMBERS .................................... 74 42. MEETING OF THE ADVISORY BOARD .............................. 74 43. TYPES AND FREQUENCY OF MEETINGS .......................... 74 44. PROCEDURES AT THE MEETINGS ..................................... 76 45. POWERS OF AGM/SGM MEETINGS .................................... 76 CHAPTER IX FINANCIAL MATTERS ............................................ 78 46. FINANCIAL YEAR .................................................................. 78 47. FUNDS ...................................................................................... 78 48. BANK ACCOUNT .................................................................... 79 49. ANNUAL REPORT .................................................................. 82 50. COMMON STAMP ................................................................... 83 51. THE AUTHORITY OF THE COUNCIL .................................. 84 52. CUSTODY OF DOCUMENTATION AND MATERIALS ...... 84
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CHAPTER X DISPUTES AND DISCIPLINE .................................... 86 53. DISPUTES ................................................................................. 86 54. DISCIPLINARY MATTERS AND PROCESSES .................... 87 CHAPTER XI MISCELLANEOUS .................................................... 90 55. PATRON AND VICE PATRONS ............................................ 90 56. THE MATRON ......................................................................... 92 57. APPLICATION OF INCOME .................................................. 92 58. ALTERATIONS TO THIS CONSTITUTION .......................... 94 59. BY-LAWS ................................................................................. 95 60. WINDING UP ........................................................................... 96 61. INDEMNITY ............................................................................. 98 62. COLOURS ................................................................................. 98 63. SCHEDULE ONE DEFINITION ................................................ i 64. SCHEDULE TWO RESPONSIBILITIES OF OFFICIALS AND
OFFICERS ............................................................................................ i 65. THE COLOURS, LOGO AND FEATURES OF HOCUSA .......v 66. SCHEDULE THREE- FIRST ELECTION ............................... vi 67. SCHEDULE FOUR-.................................................................. ix 68. DECLARATION .........................................................................x
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CHAPTER I- NAME, MISSION, VISION AND
FUNCTIONS
1. NAME
i. There is formed an association of Post-secondary school
students from Homa Bay County.
ii. The name of the Association shall be “HOMABAY
COUNTY STUDENTS ASSOCIATION” herein
referred to as (HOCUSA).
iii. The Association shall be non-political and shall
advance its objectives with regard to the existing rules
governing societies, as specified under the Act, and
with none discriminatory principles and practices.
iv. The Association shall be the overall body and/or
headquarters, representing institutional based affiliate
associations formed by members of the Association in
accordance to the provisions of this Constitution and the
Act.
v. The affiliate associations referred herein shall be formed
and registered by, and with Homabay Students at the
respective Institutions where membership is permitted
and in accordance to the existing regulations at those
institutions.
vi. The Association shall be gender sensitive and shall
operate in such a manner to promote gender balance and
equity.
2. MISSION STATEMENT
To create opportunities and develop an environment suitable
for members to explore and inculcate their abilities and skills
thereby enhancing socio-economic freedom and a certain
degree of dependability at all levels of life; and to be a body
for the integration of members.
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2-1 VISION STATEMENT
To be a leading Association of students in the dissemination
of outreach activities, promotion of learning activities, socio-
economic development and capacity building of youths in
Homabay County.
2-2 AFFILIATE ASSOCIATIONS
HOCUSA may form Affiliate associations in every institution
where members are students and membership is allowed
under this Constitution. The Affiliate associations shall be
affiliate bodies to HOCUSA and shall be registered at those
institutions in accordance to the regulations therewith and
shall adopt the Association’s Constitution but shall have the
following limitations to their capacities, roles and nature of
operations:
1. The Objectives of the Affiliate associations shall not
include to form Affiliate associations or enter into
affiliations unless shall intended affiliations are
approved by the headquarter office.
2.Amendments to the Constitution can only be made by
the headquarters of the Association in accordance with
the provisions of Rule 55.
3. The provisions of Rule 57 shall apply to Affiliate
associations but, in addition, Affiliate associations will
not be dissolved without consultation with the
headquarters.
4.All limitations to the extent of services, operations,
powers and authority, management structures and their
authority as contained in this Constitution or otherwise
provided herein.
5.All the affiliate associations shall be organized
according to provisions of this Constitution and shall
remain part of the Association; and shall have no
power to make a ruling or to enforce a law or
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regulation that contravenes the provisions of this
Constitution.
6. The affiliate associations shall have the right to make
their By-Laws, but any made laws shall be forwarded
to the Amalgamation Committee for approval before it
is executed or enforced.
The affiliates shall be Institutional chapters to HOCUSA
bearing the full name of the association and including the
name of the institution where it is registered and the wording
―chapter‖.
3. TRUSTEES
a. All land, buildings and other immovable property and all
investments and securities which shall be acquired by the
Society may be vested in the names of the Association or
not less than five (5) trustees who shall be members of
the Society and shall be appointed at an annual general
meeting for a period of two years. On retirement such
trustees shall be eligible for re-election.
b. A general meeting shall have the power to remove any of
the trustees and all vacancies occurring by removal,
resignation or death, shall be filled at the same or next
general meeting.
c. The trustees shall pay all income received from property
vested in the trustees to the Treasurer. Any expenditure
in respect of such property which in the opinion of the
trustees is necessary or desirable shall be reported by the
trustees to the Council which shall authorize expenditure
of such moneys as it thinks fit.
d. The Council shall set regulations to give effect to this
Rule and circumstances under which trustees shall be
contacted.
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4. STATEMENT OF OBJECT AND FUNCTIONS
a-
i. The object of HOCUSA is to act as a regional body with
unlimited operations, for the promotion and support of
socio-economic development and freedom among
members and the members of the society.
ii. In pursuing its Objects HOCUSA shall be guided by the
principle of equity, democracy, transparency, openness,
simplicity and shall be unbiased or otherwise to any
party(s).
b- HOCUSA will promote its object through the following
principal functions:
i. Developing, conducting and promoting Members’
participation in socio-economic development through
ways and means applicable.
ii. Enhancing and/or otherwise guiding the formation of,
establishment of, and management of, the Affiliate
associations formed by members according to the objects
of the Association.
iii. Co-operating with Members, relevant Associations,
groups, organizations, and agencies to assist Members to
promote and support economic and social development
including education, health and creativity.
iv. Conduct civic awareness on various issues of national
importance, through partnership and cooperation with
other such related bodies and agencies.
v. Facilitating the formation of business firms and acquire
any such documents, permits and authority to manage the
firms in accordance to the Act.
vi. Being a member of, and, otherwise participating in, and
liaising with, other bodies locally and at the
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International level and such other bodies as may be
desirable in pursuit of its Object; mission and objectives.
vii. Strategizing the formation of Affiliate associations in
all the Institutions where membership is allowed.
viii. Representing the interests of the Members, the society,
and in particular, bringing issues which involve the
Association to the attention of the government and other
relevant organizations and agencies.
c- HOCUSA will also pursue its object by:
i. Promoting and supporting the health and well-being of
Members and others through any relevant means.
ii. Maintaining and developing necessary networks to
support the Objectives and Mission of the Association.
iii. Working in liaison with relevant bodies to develop
reasonable academic standards among Members and
other members of the society.
iv. Forming Affiliate associations in all the Institutions
where membership is allowed under this Constitution.
v. Being a source of academic excellence through
conducting educational/motivational advice and visits to
schools and learning institutions to encourage pupils and
students on matters of academics, social life and general
life skills.
vi. Organizing, promoting and conducting relevant settings
to promote development of Members in various levels of
life.
vii. Setting, promulgating and securing acceptance of the
rules and standards necessary for the management and
control of HOCUSA objectives.
viii. Entering into such commercial arrangements, including
sponsorship and marketing opportunities, as are
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appropriate to further the Object and Functions of
HOCUSA. ix. Working with such other regional, national and
international organizations, and individuals as are
appropriate to promote the objectives and interests of
HOCUSA. x. Being the arbiter on matters concerning the conduct of
HOCUSA, including disciplinary matters and to use and
protect HOCUSA collective intellectual property and
skills of members.
xi. Undertaking reasonable steps in advancing the socio-
economic power and ability of members.
xii. Undertaking development procedures including
agriculture, to promote the members income.
d- In pursuing and promoting its object and exercising its
functions and powers HOCUSA shall:
i. Act in good faith to promote and support the highest
standards of quality and integrity.
ii. Promote mutual trust and confidence between HOCUSA
its Members and the Society.
iii. Promote the economic and social success, strength and
stability of HOCUSA Members; and
iv. Have regard for the public interest in all its operations.
e- THE OBJECTIVES OF HOCUSA
The Objectives of HOCUSA shall be;
1. To encourage, foster and develop among its members,
recognition of the importance of, and participation in,
agricultural activities, agribusiness activities, and
aquaculture related entrepreneurial activities, and other
forms of income generating activities to the members and
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the Association; in the national life and hence promoting
livelihood.
2. Promote the wellbeing of young members of the society
and other members of the society in general through
provision of employment avenues and linking members
to possible employers.
3. To sell, manage, lease, mortgage, dispose of, or
otherwise deal with the property of the Association.
4. To provide for the recreation of the members and to
promote and afford opportunity for friendly and social
activities.
5. To form Affiliate associations in all the Institutions
where membership is allowed to promote faster
implementation of the objectives and accessibility.
6. To acquire lands, by purchase or otherwise, erect or
otherwise provide a building or buildings for social
economic and community purposes.
7. To encourage and promote amateur games and exercises
to members of the society.
8. To establish any such structures, centres, places and/or
facilities that will promote the achievements of its
objectives.
9. To provide a meeting place for the consideration and
discussion of questions affecting the interests of the
community.
10. To form a Credit and Servings Account (SACCO) for
all its members.
11. To promote, develop and sustain business and any such
related ideas that will be pursued to improve the
intellectual power and entrepreneurial interests of
members thereby providing a wider scope of socio-
economic achievements.
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12. To carry on a literary and debating activities for the
discussion of topics of general interest, and to
encourage the practice of public speaking among its
members and students in secondary schools.
13. To procure the delivery of lectures on social, education,
political, economic and other subjects, and to give and
arrange musical and dramatic entertainments.
14. To establish and maintain a library and reading room to
be used by members of the public.
15. To provide all necessary equipment and furniture for
carrying on its various objects.
16. To provide a centre and suitable meeting place for the
various activities of the community.
17. To promote gender equality by striking effective
balance in the economic and academic achievements of
members.
18. To promote awareness on pressing social issues
including health and lifestyle in the society.
19. Link the members of the Association to the various
sources of incentives to promote the general welfare
and life standards.
5. PRINCIPAL PLACE OF ADMINISTRATION
i. The principal place(s) of administration of HOCUSA,
also known as the Office, shall be located at the County
Headquarters.
ii. The Affiliate associations formed under this Association
shall have their headquarters at the Institutions where
they are operating from or otherwise formed, and may
have members of the Affiliate association appointed by
the members to operate therein.
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iii. There may be Affiliate association’s offices at places
determined by members of the Affiliate association’s
and manned by persons approved by the members of
the Affiliate association, or as provided under this
Constitution.
iv. The decision of the Council on the place(s) of
meeting(s) shall be final and binding.
v. There may be officers as determined by the Council to
operate at the Head Offices at specified times.
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CHAPTER II MEMBERSHIP
6. CATEGORY OF MEMBERS
i) The categories of Membership of HOCUSA,
(collectively called ―Members‖) shall be:
a) Members as described in Rule 6 (ii).
b) Any other category or categories of Membership as
determined by the Council.
ii) ORDINARY MEMBERS
1. Subject to Rules 6 (2) and 6 (3), an Ordinary Member
shall be:
a) A Kenyan Citizen from any Constituency within
Homabay County, being a student in any learning
institution where membership is allowed, and is within
the Constitutional meaning of a youth; or
b) Any youth from Homabay County who in the opinion of
the Council meets criteria specified for membership by
the Executive Committees of the affiliate associations; or
c) A student from any University, College or Academic
Institution outside Kenya, other than below secondary
school; who meets Rule 6 ii (1a) above or any other set
requirements under this Constitution and/ or By-Laws.
d) One shall be a member by default upon joining any
affiliate association of HOCUSA, formed under this
Constitution, as a member, and subscribing to that
affiliate as required.
e) Members under (d) above shall not be required to
observe other requirement of Rule 6(2) provided that
their details are available to the County Head Offices.
2. a) Any person or Associations of persons seeking to
become a Member as under rule 6(ii) 1c must apply to
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the Secretariat of HOCUSA on the prescribed form
and pay Membership Fee(s) – Affiliations and
Subscription as contained thereof.
b) An application form received by the Secretariat
shall be forwarded to the Amalgamation Committee
which shall carry out its duties as required by the law.
c) The Amalgamation Committee shall then present its
decision on the application to the Council.
d) The Council shall determine in its discretion
whether to admit an applicant.
e) A decision of the Council to admit a member under
rule 6(2) d may be disallowed by a resolution
supported by the absolute majority of members
present at an AGM following the Council’s decision.
3. A decision of the Council or the AGM to reject or
disallow membership shall be final.
4. If the Council and/or the AGM reject an application of
membership, the amount paid by the person whose
membership application is rejected shall be refunded
to them immediately after the decision.
5. All membership fees shall be paid to the Affiliate
association’s Treasurers, or in case the registration is
conducted by the Secretariat, the Finance Manager, as
required by this Constitution, or shall be paid directly
to the bank account managed by HOCUSA.
6. A person who was enlisted as a Member of HOCUSA
prior to this Constitution shall be considered a member
and deemed to have fulfilled the requirements of Rule
6(1), unless;
a) Such a person is blocked from continuing as a member
by a resolution of the Council supported by the absolute
majority of members present at an AGM following the
Council’s decision;
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b) The member resigns by writing to the SG.
c) A request of a Member described in 6(6) (b) shall be
granted as described in this Constitution if such a
Member meets any requirement set by the Council or in
this Constitution.
7. LIFE MEMBERS
i) A Life Member is a person who has given outstanding
contribution or service to HOCUSA and who has been
granted Life Membership of HOCUSA under Rule
7(ii).
ii) An Alumni or Associate of institutions of learning
from which membership is open may, after
confirmation by members, be nominated by the
Association to be a life member.
iii) A person shall become a Life Member by
recommendation of the Council or the Affiliate
associations and subsequent vote by three-quarters
majority of those present, in person or by proxy, and
entitled to vote at an AGM of Members if such a
person has attained an age above the minimum age
limit for a member. Such process shall be carried out
in accordance with the regulations provided by the
Amalgamation Committee.
iv) A Life Member shall have the same rights and
obligations as all other Members, except s/he shall
have no right to vie and be elected to be a member of
the Secretariat, but may have right to hold any other
office created under this Constitution upon meeting
any set requirements for the respective office
v) Council shall set other duties and functions of life
members and give further regulations to this rule.
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8. SPECIAL MEMBERS
i. Members of the society with outstanding
contributions and impact to the Association may be
members of the Association after an approval
supported by at least two-third of all the members of
the Association during an AGM on which the matter
is presented.
ii. Each Affiliate association may also nominate
members to be considered for Special Membership
and the AGM shall have the power to allow or
disallow such nominations accordingly.
iii. Special members may not be persons from
Homabay County or a Constituency in Homabay
County, or a Kenyan Citizen by birth.
iv. The Council shall set requirements for the
application of Rule 6(8).
7. MEMBERSHIP FEES
i- There shall be a membership fee of not less than Kshs.
100 payable by all members of the Association once
and during their entry into the Association.
ii- The Council shall have the authority to, subject to
approval of members; review the membership fee
and/or other fees payable by all Members to
HOCUSA, the due date for payment of the fee(s), the
frequency of payments and the manner of payment.
iii- The Treasurer of each Affiliate association shall be
responsible for the collection of all funds and fees paid
in favour of HOCUSA by all members, and shall issue
receipts of payments of such funds, money, or
resources received from payments by members, for the
purpose of this Rule, or any other Rule, and shall
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deposit all the funds to the Association’s Bank
Account(s) belonging to that Affiliate association, if
that collection is not made in favour of HOCUSA, and
where the collections are made by a members in
favour of HOCUSA, the treasurer shall remit such
collections to the Finance Manager in accordance to
this Rule.
iv- The payment made by a member in favour of
HOCUSA shall be remitted to HOCUSA accounts
through the Finance Manager.
v- Despite any provisions herein, a member may pay
their dues directly to the Finance Manager or deposit
such payments to HOCUSA Bank accounts, but shall
forward all receipts indicating that particular payment
to the Finance Manager.
vi- Every affiliate association may have other ways of
payments of monies or means of acquiring finances or
other resources.
vii- In fulfilling Rule 7 the Council shall be considerate
and accommodative and fair to all members.
viii- Subject to this Constitution and By-Laws any
decisions of the Council on Rule 7 shall be binding to
all members and shall not be subject to any resolution
or appeal.
ix- Nothing in this Rule shall hinder any reasonable
tool adopted by any affiliate association to collect,
manage and sustain its finances.
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8. MEMBERS RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS
(1.) In becoming a Member, an Officer or an Appointed
Official a person or organization is deemed to
acknowledge and agree that:
a. They are entitled to all benefits, advantages,
privileges and services conferred by this
Constitution.
b. This Constitution constitutes a contract between
each of them and HOCUSA and that they are bound
by this Constitution and the By-Laws.
c. They will comply with and observe this
Constitution and the By-Laws and any
determination, resolution or policy which may be
made or passed by the Council in respect of
HOCUSA.
d. That the Affiliate associations are useful and
reasonable for the realization of the Associations
Objectives.
e. This Constitution and the By-Laws are necessary
and reasonable for promoting the Objects and
Functions of HOCUSA.
(2.) All members shall be required to sign the
Membership forms and agree with all the terms and
conditions before their Membership is approved.
(3.) No issue of Membership approval shall be an
individual’s duty unless such duties are delegated to
the person.
(4.) All members shall have an absolute authority to
obtain any kind of information about the Association,
or any sought clarification from any organ, Affiliate
association or officer of HOCUSA.
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(5.) Subject to provisions of this Constitution, a member
shall have the right to be elected, nominated and/or
appointed in any capacity of leadership, if they meet
the relevant set requirements for the respective offices
or capacities.
(6.) All members shall have the right to vote at an
election and to elect a leader of her/his interest or
choice.
9. REGISTER OF MEMBERS AND OFFICIALS
a- The Register
i. There shall be a register of all members for every
Affiliate association’s kept and maintained by the
Secretaries of the organizations.
ii. The Affiliate association’s Secretary shall update
the County Registry by forwarding new entries in the
Affiliate association to the Secretary General.
iii. The Secretary General shall keep and maintain a
register in which shall be entered the full name,
constituency, address, class of Membership, Member’s
occupation or education level and date of entry of each
Member, Officer, Office Bearer and Appointed Official
(―the County Register‖).
iv. Any entry in the Register shall be available for
inspection by Members, Officers, and elected Officials
and subject to terms and conditions of the Societies Act
be available to officers mandated by governments,
agencies and other organizations for scrutiny and
inspection.
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b- Resignation of a Member
i. A Member may resign from membership of
HOCUSA by giving written notice to that effect to
the Secretary of the Affiliate association’s he/she
belongs to.
ii. The Secretary shall communicate any resignation of a
member in his/her Affiliate association to the
Secretary General within two weeks from the date of
receipt of the resignation.
iii. The SG shall lodge a request to the Welfare
Committee to consider any necessary undertaking
regarding the benefits and dividends of the member
and communicate to the relevant Organ of the
Association for the requisite actions to be taken.
iv. Such resignation does not relinquish that Member’s
obligations to pay any unpaid Membership Fees or
other money owing to HOCUSA as at the date of
receipt of the resignation notice.
v. A member who resigns and is found to have their
records of payments to the Association properly
reflecting the days he/she has been in the
Association, and has no debt of the Association or the
Affiliate associations, shall be entitled to a reasonable
pack of their share of the Association.
c- Termination of Membership
i) A Member may have their membership of HOCUSA
terminated by the Council if the Affiliate associations
from which the member belongs terminates his/her
membership of the Affiliate association’s accordingly.
ii) An Affiliate association’s Executive shall have similar
powers as of the Council in regard to this rule.
d- In addition to Rule 9(b) but subject to Rule 9(c), a
Member’s membership of HOCUSA may be terminated if the
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Council, after reasonable enquiry, determines that the
Member has not complied, or is unable to comply, with a
reasonable Council decision, the Constitution, the By-Laws,
or any policies or reasonable direction of the Council.
e- Before any decision under Rule 9(d) is made the Member
concerned shall:
i) Be given seven (7) days written notice by the Council of
the intended resolution, and
ii) Have the right to be present through an authorized
representative, make submissions and be heard at the
Council meeting at which the resolution is to be
determined.
iii) If by the termination of the notice period, a member has
not responded to the notice thereof, the Council shall
deregister the member from the Association and no
further actions may be taken by the member or any
member of the Association on that matter.
f- Any Member whose membership is terminated under Rule
9(d) may appeal the decision of the Council to a Special
General Meeting called following the decision of the Council.
The appeal shall be lodged with the SG not more than two (2)
months after the Council’s decision. Then;
i) The appeal shall be allowed if a three-quarters majority
of those present, in person, and entitled to vote at the
Special General Meeting do so in favour of such appeal.
ii) The decision of the AGM/Special General Meeting shall
be final.
g- Membership which has been terminated under Rule 9(d)
may only be reinstated by a resolution recommended by the
Council and passed by majority votes at a subsequent
SGM/AGM Meeting of Members.
h- A Member who ceases to be a Member of HOCUSA shall
forfeit all rights in, and claims upon, HOCUSA and its
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property, and shall not use any property of HOCUSA,
including Intellectual Property, except such claims made on
welfare matters.
i- Upon fulfilment of reasonable requirements of membership,
the SG shall produce Membership Card to the relevant
member.
j- Membership Card shall be used for purposes specified in
this Constitution or the By-Laws and may be evidence of
Membership.
k- The SG shall determine the minimum conditions and
requirements to be attained by a member for purposes of
Rule 9(j).
l- The Council shall determine the extent to which the
Membership card is used and/or what features are to be
included in that Card.
m- Despite any provision under this rule, an affiliate
association may issue certificates to its members in a manner
adopted by that affiliate association.
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CHAPTER III OFFICERS
10. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL OFFICERS
i. All the Officers of the Secretariat shall be elected by members at an
AGM/SGM under this Constitution.
iii. Members to be elected or appointed or nominated to serve in
any capacity in HOCUSA shall meet the following requirements-
but not limiting any other reasonable requirements set in the By-
Laws of this Association:
a) Must be a Kenyan citizen hailing from Homabay County;
b) Must be a member of an Affiliate association’s created under this
Constitution;
c) Possess leadership qualities required for the development,
maintenance and achievements of the Associations objectives;
d) Express willingness to serve the Association with no conditions.
e) Demonstrate the capability to perform the duties of the post s/he
wants to be elected into;
f) Be innovative, a good performer and dedicated to the service of the
Association;
g) Shall be a member of the Association who has been observant and
dedicated to the requirements, activities and operations of the
Association for at least a reasonable record of time;
h) Be of good character and able to work effectively with others;
i) Shall demonstrate proof of leadership in life;
j) Be of good character desirable for a leader and must be fit to hold
office created under this Association;
k) Be ready to defend this Constitution.
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11. OFFICERS OF THE ASSOCIATION
PART 1-THE OFFICERS OF HOCUSA COUNCIL
There is established HOCUSA GOVERNING COUNCIL, herein
referred to as ―Council‖ or ―the Council‖ and shall be the overall
Management Organ of the Association.
The Council shall be constituted as follows:
1. The Secretariat.
2. The Affiliate association’s Chairpersons.
a) The Secretariat.
The Secretariat shall include:
Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson, Secretary General, Finance Manager,
Deputy Secretary General, Project Manager, Organizing Secretary and
Public Relations Officer all elected at an AGM.
1- The Secretariat
Subject to this Constitution the Secretariat has the mandate to perform
all duties as appear necessary or desirable for the proper management
and administration of HOCUSA including but not only the management
and administration of its events, program including projects, business
and activities within the policy framework and procedures determined
by the Council and the Affiliate associations.
b) The Affiliate association’s Chairpersons
This shall be the Chairpersons of the Affiliate associations of the
Association elected as provided in this Constitution.
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PART 2- OFFICERS OF THE AFFILIATE ASSOCIATION’SES
1- THE AFFILIATE ASSOCIATION’S EXECUTIVE
COMMITTEE
Shall be referred to as the EC or the Committee
They shall include:
Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer, Vice
Secretary, Project Coordinator, Organizing Secretary and Public
Relations Officer all elected at an AGM.
An Affiliate association will also elect a member who shall be the
Institution’s Representative of the affiliate association to HOCUSA.
2- The Committee
Subject to this Constitution the Committee has the mandate to perform
all duties as appear necessary or desirable for the proper management
and administration of the Affiliate association’s including but not only
the management and administration of its events, program including
projects, business and activities within the policy framework and
procedures determined by the Committee in consultations with, the
Council.
The Affiliate associations shall be answerable to its members and to the
Council and shall act within the guidance of the Constitution and its by-
Laws.
(a) THE AFFILIATE ASSOCIATION’S EXECUTIVE CHARPERSON
i. Be the head of the Affiliate association.
ii. As the Chair of the Executive Committee, ensure that the
Executive Committee functions properly. The Chairperson shall
be responsible for making sure that each meeting is planned
effectively, conducted according to the Constitution and that
matters are dealt with in an orderly and efficient manner.
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iii. Regularly with the Executive Committees directive, review the
Affiliate association’s ’s performance on the latter’s behalf and,
identify and manage the process for renewal of the Executive
Committee through recruitment of new members;
iv. Co-ordinate the Committees to ensure that appropriate policies
and procedures are in place for the effective management of the
Affiliate association’s;
v. Represent the Affiliate association, or the Executive Committee
or the Committees of the Affiliate association’s as its figurehead.
vi. Be the public representative of the E. C and the Affiliate
association’s to the community at the Institution level. He/she
shall be aware of, before signing all documents that set out
policy or have financial implications for the Affiliate
association’s;
vii. Oversee the actions and duties of all other officers and
employees of the Affiliate association’s and report to the
Council;
viii. Preside over all executive and membership meetings;
ix. Delegate, assign and/ or direct duties to an Officer, Member or
any other Organs of the Affiliate association. Any such duties
shall be of interest to the Affiliate association’s;
x. Be a member of such Committees as described in the
Constitution;
xi. Be one of the signatories to the Affiliate association’s ’s Bank
Account;
xii. Initiate the formation of the Special Committees or bodies as
under the Constitution of the Affiliate association’s;
xiii. Perform any other duty(s) under the Constitution or as shall be
determined by the Affiliate association’s members and the
Council.
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(b)THE VICE CHAIRPERSON
The Vice Chairperson, herein referred to as VC shall;
i. Be the Principal assistant to the Chairperson;
ii. Be a member of and the Chair to the Welfare Committee;
iii. Assume the office of the chairperson and roles in the latter’s
absence, or in case of a casual vacancy in the latter’s office;
iv. Represent the Chair in any meeting in which the latter is
unable to attend or in case of the latter’s request;
v. Be the custodian of welfare activities and records of all
members;
vi. Act as the Treasurer in the event the latter is absent or unable
to attend their duties;
vii. Perform all the duties necessary to motivate members and
influence beneficial activities to members;
viii. Be responsible for organizing any activity targeting members
such as get together, bash among other social events in the
Affiliate association’s ;
ix. Perform any other duty(s) as shall be set by the Affiliate
association’s ;
x. Perform any other duties under the Constitution.
b (1) Subject to the provision of this Constitution, the VC shall not
represent the Chairperson as a signatory to the bank account except in
the case of vacancy in the office of the latter, where s/he shall assume
the roles of the Chair.
b (2) Rule 13.1 shall not be used in reference to a casual vacancy in the
office of the Chairperson.
(c) THE SECRETARY
The Secretary S shall:
i. Organize and follow up meetings of the Affiliate association’s ;
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i. Look after the overall administration of the Affiliate
association’s;
ii. Deal with correspondence of the chairperson's signature;
iii. Contact other members to follow-up tasks needing to be done;
iv. Advice the Affiliate association’s on casual vacancies existing in
the Affiliate association’s at all levels of leadership and initiate
due process to fill any such vacancies in accordance with the
Constitution;
v. Accompany the Chairperson, or the Person performing the roles
of the chair to joint meetings of the Affiliate association’s with
other Affiliate association’s’s where s/he shall take minutes or
notes on behalf of the Affiliate association’s;
vi. In liaison with the Organizing Secretary make sure a place is
available for the meeting;
vii. Settle the items of the agenda with the Chairperson and prepare
copies for all members;
viii. Keep all the documents that may be needed at the meeting in a
folder - they should be arranged in the order that will be needed;
ix. Have any reports or information ready which may have been
asked for at the previous meeting;
x. Be one of the signatories to the Bank Account;
xi. Perform any other clerical duties during the Meetings of
Members, MC and the Executive Committee;
xii. Write any letters, secure any information or take any action on
matters decided by the Committee,
xiii. Write up the Minutes during the MC meetings AGM, SGM and
meeting of members for circulation;
xiv. Immediately bring to the attention of the Committee any
document served on the Affiliate association’s at the Secretary’s
address;
xv. Ensure the Minutes typed, copied and sent out to the members of
the Committee on request;
xvi. Be the legal representative of the Affiliate association’s;
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xvii. Receive communications including minutes from the Secretary
General of the Association and circulate to members of the
Affiliate associations.
xviii. Perform any other duty(s) as may be set by the Affiliate
associations and the Council.
xix. Shall perform any other duties under the Constitution.
(c) THE TREASURER
The Treasurer shall be responsible for:
i. The proper handling of the finances of the Affiliate associations.
ii. Collection of memberships and fees, and issuing receipts for every
amount received.
iii. Paying these and all other money into the Affiliate association’s
bank account.
iv. Receive moneys to the Affiliate associations allocated by the Head
Office.
v. Keeping the duplicate pay-in slips in proper date order so that the
entries may be checked later (by the bookkeeper and the auditors)
with the passbook or statement provided by the bank.
vi. Paying all accounts as required by the Affiliate association’s
subject to provisions of this Constitution.
vii. Be one of the signatories to the Affiliate association’s Bank
Account.
ii. Maintaining a file of accounts and relative receipts for record and
audit purposes.
iii. Keeping proper books, or seeing that they are kept and providing
the information thereof to the Council or its member mandated to
do so.
iv. Keeping a watch on the expenditure of the Affiliate association.
v. Presenting details of all payments to the Executive Committee or
the Council for approval before they are made, or in retrospect
where this is policy.
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vi. Ensuring that all cheques are signed strictly in accordance with the
authority given in the Constitution of the centre.
vii. Keeping the Executive Committee and the Council regularly
informed of the financial position - income, expenditure, in
comparison with budget of the Affiliate association.
viii. Preparing a statement for audit as required under this Constitution
and for presenting the audited accounts to the annual general
meeting.
ix. Preparing (and reviewing) an annual budget with the help of the
Committee.
x. Develop systems of financial accountability as necessary for the
Affiliate association.
xi. Perform any other duty(s) as shall be set by the Affiliate association
and the Association.
xii. Perform any other duties under the By-Laws passed by that
Affiliate association or under this Constitution.
(c) 1) Any casual vacancy, and not a temporal absence, that shall occur
in the Office of the Treasurer shall be filled temporally by the Vice
Chairperson for a period not more than three 3 months a waiting the
election of a new official to the post.
(c) 2) Elections of an officer following Rule 15.1 shall be done
according to the procedures provided under this Constitution.
(d) THE PROJECT COORDINATOR
The Project Coordinator shall;
i. Identify, with the help of the Project Committee of the
Association, projects to be undertaken by the Affiliate
association and advice the EC and the Council accordingly.
ii. Coordinate all the Income Generating Activities of the Affiliate
association.
iii. In liaison with the SG and the PRO organize and plan all other
activities for the Affiliate association.
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iv. Chair the Project Panel and be a member of the Association’s
Project Committee.
v. Perform any other role or duty as may be assigned by the
Affiliate association, its Organs or the Chairperson and the
Association.
vi. Perform any other duties under the Constitution.
(e) THE ORGANIZING SECRETARY
The Organizing Secretary shall;
i. Coordinate, with the help and guidance of the Association, the
Affiliate association’s program.
ii. Be in-charge of the internal programming of the Affiliate
association and harmonize Committee’s programs and the events of
the Affiliate association’s to avoid any conflict.
iii. Design, make or create design features for the Affiliate association.
iv. In consultation with the SG, notify all members of a meeting and
communicate the venue and time of the meeting, through a
reasonable mode of communication acceptable by the Affiliate
association.
(f) VICE SECRETARY (VS)
The VS shall;
i. Make sure that the Minutes of the EC meetings are written up and a
copy circulated to all Executive Committee members with notice of
the next meeting (date, place, time) and a draft Agenda for the
coming EC meeting;
ii. Communicate to members of the EC informing them of the meeting
and pass the agendas for the meeting in good time;
iii. May assist the SG in his/her functions;
iv. Act as the SG in the latter’s absence or in case of a casual vacancy
in the position of the SG;
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v. Be a member of the Project Panel and shall take minutes during its
meetings;
vi. Perform any other duty(s) as shall be set by the Affiliate
association;
vii. Perform any other duties under the Constitution.
12. PRINCIPLES OF LEADERSHIP
The guiding principles of leadership and integrity include—
a) Selection on the basis of personal integrity, competence and
suitability, or election in free and fair elections;
b) Objectivity and impartiality in decision making, and in ensuring
that decisions are not influenced by nepotism, favouritism, other
improper motives or corrupt practices;
c) Selfless service based solely on the Associations’ interest,
demonstrated by—
i. Honesty in the execution of Associations’ duties; and
ii. Accountability to the Association for decisions and actions; and
iii. Discipline and commitment in service to the Association.
13. FUNCTIONS, ROLES AND DUTIES OF THE
OFFICERS
1- Officers elected, appointed, nominated or selected under this
Constitution shall bear a collective mandate for the Association.
2- The office bearers have an individual responsibility and a collective
responsibility to:
a) Up hold the requirements of this Constitution.
b) Safe guard all the interests of HOCUSA.
c) Must be individually liable for any act(s), performance and
commitments or acts of omissions in their dockets.
d) Subject to provisions of this Constitution, have the power to
represent the Association at functions where the Association may
be required to attend or participate.
e) Shall be ears and the eyes of the Association.
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f) Shall be liable to the Association and act in the best manner to
protect all the property of the Association.
14. THE ASSOCIATION CHAIRPERSON
S/he shall;
i. Be the overall head of the Association;
ii. As the Chair of the Council, ensure that the Council functions
properly. The Chairperson shall be responsible for making sure
that each meeting is planned effectively, conducted according to
the Constitution and that matters are dealt with in an orderly and
efficient manner.
iii. Shall be the Chairperson in a meeting between the Executives,
Chairpersons and may delegate this role to a member of the
Council, when the Deputy Chairperson is absent.
iv. Regularly with the Council, review the Association’s
performance and, identify and manage the process for renewal of
the Committees through recruitment of new members.
v. Co-ordinate the Committees formed under the Association to
ensure that appropriate policies and procedures are in place for
the effective management of the Association.
vi. Represent the Association, or the Council or the Committees of
the Association as its figurehead.
vii. Be the public representative of the Council and the Association
to the community. He/she shall be aware of, before signing all
documents that set out policy or have financial implications for
the Association.
viii. Oversee the actions and duties of all other officers and
employees of the Association.
ix. Preside over all Council and membership meetings.
x. Delegate, assign and/ or direct duties to an Officer, Member or
any other Organs of the Association or an Affiliate association’s
of the Association. Any such duties shall be of interest to the
Association.
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xi. Be one of the signatories to the Association’s Bank Account.
xii. Initiate, through the guidance of the Board, the formation of the
Special Committees or bodies as under the Constitution of the
Association.
xiii. Ensure that the Constitution, the By-Laws and any regulations,
decisions, directives or resolutions of the Association are adhered
to, implemented attended to as directed.
xiv. Perform any other duty(s) under the Association’s Constitution
or as shall be determined by the Association.
15. THE DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON
The Deputy Chairperson, herein referred to as DC shall;
i. Unless stated otherwise under this Constitution or by a decision
of the AGM or the Council, be the Principal assistant to the
Chairperson.
ii. Be a member of and the Chair to the Welfare Committee.
iii. Assume the office of the chairperson and roles in the latter’s
absence, or in case of a casual vacancy in the latter’s office.
iv. Represent the Chairperson in any meeting in which the latter is
unable to attend or in case of the latter’s request.
v. Be the custodian of welfare activities and records of all members.
vi. Act as the Finance Manager in the event the latter is absent or
unable to attend their duties.
vii. Perform all the duties necessary to motivate members and
influence beneficial activities to members.
viii. Be responsible for organizing any activity targeting members
such as get together, bash among other social events in the
Association.
ix. Perform any other duty(s) as shall be set by the Association.
x. Perform any other duties under the Constitution.
15.1 Subject to the provision of this Constitution, the DC shall not
represent the Chairperson as a signatory to the bank account except in
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the case of vacancy in the office of the latter, where s/he shall assume
the roles of the Chair.
15.2 Rule 15.1 shall not be used in reference to a casual vacancy in the
office of the Chairperson.
16. THE SECRETARY GENERAL (SG)
The Secretary General, herein referred to as SG shall:
i. Organize and follow up meetings of the Association.
ii. Look after the overall administration of the Association.
iii. Deal with correspondence of the chairperson's signature.
iv. Contact other members to follow-up tasks needing to be done.
v. Advice the Association on casual vacancies existing in the
Association at all levels of leadership and initiate due process to
fill any such vacancies in accordance with the Constitution.
vi. Accompany the Chairperson, or the Person performing the roles
of the chair to joint meetings of the Association with other
Association’s where s/he shall take minutes or notes on behalf of
the Association.
vii. In liaison with the Organizing secretary make sure a place is
available for the meeting.
viii. Settle the items of the agenda with the Chairperson and prepare
copies for all members.
ix. Keep all the documents that may be needed at the meeting in a
folder - they should be arranged in the order that will be needed.
x. Have any reports or information ready which may have been
asked for at the previous meeting;
xi. Be one of the signatories to the Bank Account.
xii. Perform any other clerical duties during the Meetings of
Members, MC and the Executive Council.
xiii. Write any letters secure any information or take any action on
matters decided by the committee.
xiv. Write up the Minutes during the MC meetings AGM, SGM and
meeting of members for circulation.
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xv. Immediately bring to the attention of the Committee of
management, or the Council, any document served on the
Association at the Secretary General’s address.
xvi. Ensure the Minutes typed, copied and sent out to the members of
the Council on request.
xvii. Be the legal representative of the Association.
xviii. Perform any other duty(s) as may be set by the Association.
xix. Shall perform any other duties under the Constitution.
17. THE FINANCE MANAGER
The Finance Manager shall be responsible for:
i. The proper handling of the finances of the Association, but not
for the actual raising of money.
ii. Collection of memberships and fees, and issuing receipts for
every amount received.
iii. Paying these and all other money into the bank.
iv. Keeping the duplicate pay-in slips in proper date order so that
the entries may be checked later (by the bookkeeper and the
auditors) with the passbook or statement provided by the bank.
v. Paying all accounts as required by the Association subject to
provisions of this Constitution.
vi. Receive all nomination fees paid by members to the
Association.
vii. Be one of the signatories to the Bank Account.
viii. Maintaining a file of accounts and relative receipts for record
and audit purposes.
ix. Keeping proper books, or seeing that they are kept.
x. Keeping a watch on the expenditure of the Association.
xi. Presenting details of all payments to the Executive Council for
approval before they are made, or in retrospect where this is
policy.
xii. Ensuring that all cheques are signed strictly in accordance with
the authority given in the Constitution of the centre; usually
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there are at least three members of the committee authorized to
sign cheques for the committee - the Finance Manager, the
secretary, and (often for convenience when there is one), the
co-coordinator. Keeping the committee regularly informed of
the financial position - income, expenditure, comparison with
budget.
xiii. Preparing a statement for audit at least once a semester and for
presenting the audited accounts to the annual general meeting.
xiv. Preparing (and reviewing) an annual budget with the help of
the Council.
xv. Develop systems of financial accountability as necessary for
the Association.
xvi. Perform any other duty(s) as shall be set by the Association.
xvii. Perform any other duties under the Constitution.
17.1 Any casual vacancy, and not a temporal absence, that shall occur
in the Office of the Finance Manager shall be filled temporally by the
Vice Chairperson for a period not more than 6 months a waiting the
election of a new official to the post.
17.2 Elections of an officer following Rule 17.1 shall be done
according to the procedures provided under this Constitution.
18. THE PROJECT MANAGER
The Project Manager shall;
i. Identify projects to be undertaken by the Association and advice the
Council on such projects accordingly.
ii. Coordinate all the Income Generating Activities of the Association
and the Affiliate associations.
iii. In liaison with the SG and the PRO organize and plan all other
activities for the Association.
iv. Chair the Project Committee.
v. Perform any other role or duty as may be assigned by the
Association, its Organs or the Chairperson.
vi. Perform any other duty(s) as shall be set by the Association.
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vii. Perform any other duties under the Constitution.
19. THE ORGANIZING SECRETARY
The Organizing Secretary shall;
i. Coordinate the Association’s program.
ii. Make, prepare and distribute, with the help of the Sub-Counties
Organizing Secretaries, the Association’s annual program and
calendars, to members in proper time.
iii. Advice the Association in all matters regarding planning of events,
calendar and other functions to be undertaken by the Association.
iv. Harmonize committees’ programs and the events of the
Association to avoid any conflict.
v. Design, make or create design features for the Association.
vi. Acquire, Organize and make arrangements for venues for an
intended meeting of Members.
vii. In consultation with the SG, notify all members of a meeting and
communicate the venue and time of the meeting, through a
reasonable mode of communication acceptable by the Association.
20. THE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER
i. Notify the Registrar, within fourteen days of appointment (except as
a result of incorporation/ affiliation of the Association to other
bodies, or an unincorporated Association, or a migration, or
amalgamating Association’s).
ii. Notify the Registrar; of a change of Association’s Officer or a
change of address within fourteen days of the change.
iii. Lodge with the Registrar; a notice of special resolution to change the
statement of purposes or Rules within one month of the general
meeting.
iv. Make application to the Registrar; for approval of a change of name
within one month after passing a special resolution to change the
Association's name.
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v. Lodge with the Registrar; the documents required under this
Constitution in respect of the Annual General Meeting within one
month or such further period as the Registrar allows.
vi. Lodge with the Registrar; notice of special resolution relating to the
winding up of the Association within one month of passing the
resolution.
vii. Lodge with the Registrar; within fourteen days after the Association
becomes trustee of a trust, particulars of the trust and a copy of any
relevant document.
viii. Produce any book required by the Registrar; or an authorized officer.
ix. Tell the Registrar; or an authorized officer where, to the best of the
Public Officer's knowledge or belief, a book is at the time of the
request.
x. Not hinder or obstruct the Registrar; or an authorized officer in the
exercise of their powers of inspection.
xi. Immediately bring to the attention of the committee of management
any document served on the Association at the Public Officer's
address.
xii. Shall perform any other duty(s) as shall be set by the Association.
xiii. Shall perform any other duties under the Constitution.
a) For the purpose of this rule, the Association shall entirely mean this
Association and all or one of its Affiliate associations.
21. DEPUTY SECRETARY GENERAL (DSG)
The DSG shall;
i. Make sure that the Minutes of the Council meetings are written up
and a copy circulated to all Council members with notice of the
next meeting (date, place, time) and a draft Agenda for the coming
Council meeting.
ii. Communicate to members of the Council informing them of the
meeting and pass the agendas for the meeting in good time.
iii. May assist the SG in his/her functions.
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iv. Act as the SG in the latter’s absence or in case of a casual vacancy
in the position of the SG.
v. Be a member of the Project Committee and shall take minutes
during its meetings.
vi. Perform any other duty(s) as shall be set by the Association.
vii. Perform any other duties under the Constitution.
22. THE CASE OF ABSEENTISM BY AN OFFICIAL
a) All officials shall have the responsibility to attend all meetings in
which they should attend and participate effectively.
b) Any failure by an official to attend any meeting called for any
purpose without a prior notice to the Chairperson shall be liable to
disciplinary actions.
c) A notice of any foreseeable absenteeism shall be in writing to the
Council addressed through the Chairperson and shall explain the
reasons to that effect.
d) For abrupt and sudden cases of absenteeism the official shall use
any effective means to channel the issue to the Council.
e) No official may miss up to three (3) consecutive Council meeting
without the permission of the Council.
f) The Council shall address any matter under this Rule in its own
merit and where applicable refer any matter it determines requires
disciplinary action to the Disciplinary Committee.
g) If the case shall involve a member of the appointed committee
under this Constitution, the members of that committee shall
channel the issue to the Council which shall be the disciplinary
body of any such matters.
h) Any matter referred to the Disciplinary Committee shall be hard
and determined in a fair, just and considerate manner and shall
offer adequate representation of the person /s involved.
i) All the relevant provisions of this Constitution shall be put to
perspective in determination of any disciplinary case(s).
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j) Only the Chairperson may grant an official permission excusing a
member from attending a meeting.
k) Any permission granted by the chair shall be in writing and shall
give adequate considerations made thereof.
l) Under this Rule, the Affiliate association’s Executive Committees
shall have similar function to that of the Council.
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CHAPTER IV THE ADVISORY BOARD
23. COMPOSITION OF THE ADVISORY BOARD
There is established the Advisory Board which shall be
nominated by the AGM and appointed by the Council.
i. Subject to provisions of this Constitution, the Advisory
Board shall consist of:
a) A person nominated and appointed as the Patron under
Rule 51(a), who shall chair the Board.
b) The person nominated and appointed as the Matron
under Rule 52, who shall be the mother of the
Association.
c) The Vice Patron.
d) At least three and not exceeding three Pioneer
members of the Association; and
e) Persons appointed by the Board subject to Rule 23(iv).
ii. The officials under Rule 23i (e) shall be from among
members of the society with such qualifications as the
Patron or the Matron or the Vice-Patron.
iii. The composition of the Board shall consider gender and
regional balance according to a reasonable guideline
adopted by the Association.
iv. If following the Constitution of the Advisory Board there
is not at least the ration of one male to one female
nominated as Board Members, or in the event that
regional balance is not met, the Board shall appoint other
additional Board Members of the relevant gender and
regions, to fulfil the requirements of this Rule, or any
other Rule under this Constitution.
v. Rule 23i (e) may also apply notwithstanding condition
stated in Rule 23(iv.)
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CHAPTER V ELECTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS OF
OFFICIALS, TERM OF OFFICE BEARERS AND
CASUAL VACANCY
24. ELECTION AND APPOINTMENT OF
OFFICIALS
PART 1- GENERAL PROVITIONS FOR ELECTIONS
i. Elections of the Secretariat shall be done at the expiry of
the term of office of that Council.
ii. All elections of the Secretariat, other than the First
Election shall be done in accordance to this Rule.
iii. Unless specified under this Constitution, the right to
hold office shall be limited to Ordinary members of the
Association, who shall not be in their final year or
otherwise, one whose membership in the respective
institution shall be terminated for whatever reason, by
that institution or by this Association.
iv. A member shall be eligible for election into any
office in this Association-
a) If he/she is a member of the Association eligible for
holding a position in the association; and has paid all the
membership dues and/or charges as deemed for all
members;
b) If he/she has paid the requisite nomination fees;
v. Election of the members of the Secretariat shall precede
the elections of the Executive Committees.
vi. All the affiliate associations shall conduct their
elections and requisite appointments during their
respective AGMs, and as provided under this
Constitution or their respective By-Laws.
vii. The officials elected in rule ii above shall be elected
at an AGM and shall be elected by a majority of those
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present, in person and entitled to vote at an AGM,
following nomination by no fewer than ten (10) eligible
members from the Affiliate associations from which they
are members.
viii. Nominations for the election of officials in rule ii
above, and other elective positions herein shall be made
in the approved form and must be received by the
Electoral Body by not less than twenty one (21) days
before the date set for the AGM under which the
elections are to be conducted, and paid a nomination fee
of Kshs. 500 for members of the Executive Body and
Kshs. 750 for the members of the Secretariat other than
the Chairperson, the Secretary General and the
Treasurer who shall pay a nomination fee of Kshs.
1000.
ix. The election of the Secretariat shall be done during the
AGM and after the election of the Affiliate association’s
Executives, by all members of the Association as
prescribed under this Rule.
x. Persons to be elected to the Secretariat may be from the
Executive Members of all the Affiliate associations or
members who are eligible for election into the positions.
xi. Despite any provisions under this Rule, members not
elected into the Executive Body will have the right to
contest and to be elected into any position of choice in
accordance to this Constitution.
xii. The Body appointed by the Association to conduct
elections shall be responsible for the elections of the
Secretariat.
xiii. If a member of an affiliate Executive is elected into any
of the following positions- the Chairperson, the
Secretary General or the Treasurer, such a member shall
resign from their positions in the Affiliate association’s
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Executive and new elections shall be conducted,
immediately to fill the positions left by such
resignation.
xiv. The elections of the members of the Secretariat shall
reflect the composition of the Association in terms of
Affiliate associations and gender.
xv.In case the outcome of any Secretariat election shall not
be consistent to rule viii above the elected members of
the Secretariat and the Chairpersons to the Affiliate
associations may appoint other members of the
Association, within one (1) month after the Secretariat’s
election, for the purpose of fulfilling the requirements of
this rule.
xvi. Appointment of members by the Council into the
Council shall be made by an absolute majority of the
Council members as provided under this Rule.
xvii. In the circumstances outlined in this Constitution, the
number of appointed officials is only limited to three
(3) and must be conducted only as under the provisions
of this Constitution. In making these appointments the
Council shall give full regard to the skills and
experience needed by the Council to meet its
responsibilities other than the reason for the
appointment.
xviii. The Council shall set duties and roles to the appointed
members and the Affiliate association’s Chairpersons
in a manner that does not contravene the harmonious
working relations and functions of other officers and
committees of the association.
xix. A person appointment into the Council shall be
recognised as a Member of the Council and shall have
equal rights entitled to all other members of the
Council.
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xx. For purpose of this Rule, member(s) of the Executive
Body shall be all the elected members of the Executive
Committees of all the Affiliate associations of the
Association.
xxi. The First Election shall be done according to the
provisions of Schedule Three of this Constitution.
PART 2- ELECTIONS AND APPOINTMENT OF
OFFICIALS AT THE ASSOCIATION
i. Election of officials of the Association shall be
conducted in accordance to this Constitution.
ii. The appointment of officials of the Association shall
recognize the diversity of the Association and shall be
fair and mindful of the existing Affiliate associations.
iii. Notwithstanding any provisions under this
Constitution, not more than one member of the
Secretariat shall be from one Affiliate Association,
unless otherwise, that circumstance is forced to be,
during the election of the Secretariat.
iv. Any election of officers of the Secretariat may be
conducted, where possible, after the conclusion of
elections at the Affiliate associations, and during the
AGM in which the Secretariat is to be elected.
v. All members elected as Chairpersons to any of the
Affiliate associations shall be a member of the
Council.
PART 3- ELECTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS OF
OFFICIALS AT AFFILIATE ASSOCIATIONS
i. Every Affiliate association of HOCUSA shall conduct
their elections during their AGM as provided in Part 1
of this Rule.
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ii. Elections of the Affiliate association’s Executive
Committee Members and other officers as required
under this Constitution shall be conducted in a manner
to promote the objectives of the Association.
iii. Election of other officials of the Affiliate associations
shall be conducted by the members of the Affiliate
association’s according to any reasonable procedure
provided by this Constitution or their respective By-
Laws.
iv. Officials at every Affiliate associations shall be elected
in a manner that offers gender equality and
demographic pattern of the Affiliate association.
25. THE ELECTORAL BODY
1- There shall be a body or person(s) approved by the
Association to conduct elections for the Association.
a) A body selected to conduct elections;
i. Shall be a recognized body/ persons to undertake
justifiable elections according to the standards set by the
Association and the Societies Act or any other relevant
laws.
ii. May consist of persons drawn from the Community and
approved by the Association.
iii. Shall verify and approve suitability of candidates for
elections based on the provisions of the Associations
Constitution.
iv. Give notices to members concerning any matter in regard
to election procedures and process.
v. Verify and approve members suitable to participate in an
election.
vi. Shall, before elections, perform all duties as may be
necessary to ensure a smooth transition.
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vii. Despite any provisions of this Rule, the Board may
conduct any election of the Association.
b) Officers responsible for Social Development, electoral
processes in Kenya, or Officials from the office of the
Registrar of Societies may be invited to conduct elections for
the Association.
c) Despite this Rule, elections at the affiliate levels shall be
conducted in accordance to their By-Laws and relevant
regulations in that institution.
2- At every election, the Electoral Body shall ensure that—
a) Whatever voting method is used, the system is simple,
accurate, verifiable, secure, accountable and transparent.
b) The votes cast are counted, tabulated and the results
announced promptly.
c) Only the person mandated as the Presiding Officer shall
announce final results.
3- The Electoral Body shall also have the mandate to
conduct elections of members of the Committee.
26. ELECTORAL PROCEDURES
i. The electoral body shall be responsible for conducting
free, fair and transparent election;
ii. An election of the Secretariat shall follow elections of
the Executive Committees and their respective
Committee Members, as provided under this
Constitution.
iii. The Affiliate associations’ and the Association’s
registers shall be provided by the Secretary and the SG
respectively to the electoral body not later than 2 months
before the Election Day, for verification.
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iv. Nomination forms for candidates shall be verified by the
Electoral Body at least one week before the Election
Day.
v. Just before election, the Presiding Officer shall dissolve
all the elective positions declaring them free for
elections.
vi. The Electoral Body shall establish and provide further
regulations to ensure a free and fair elections at all levels.
27. TERM OF OFFICE HOLDERS
a) Subject to provisions of this Constitution, the term of office
for all elected officials in the Secretariat and other
appointed officials thereof, shall be two (2) years and shall
expire at the conclusion of the relevant AGM. Subject to
provisions of this Constitution, an Official may be re-
elected or reappointed to the Secretariat or appointed to
serve in a Committee in similar or different position.
b) The term of office for all the officers of the Affiliate
associations shall be one (1) year or a period equivalent to
one (1) academic year.
c) Subject to provisions of this Constitution an Official may
be re-elected or re-appointed to the EC of an Affiliate
associations.
d) A member who has served in one position is eligible for
election in some other position in an election and such new
election shall be considered just like any other new
election.
e) The Board may by a resolution endorse a Member of the
Council who has given an immense contributions and
service to the Association to continue serving in non-
elective positions as determined by the Board for a period it
considers necessary.
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f) The Board’s resolution shall not be subject to review by
any organ under this Constitution, and unless there is
reasonable ground to believe that in its determination the
Board faltered, ignored or otherwise acted in a manner
demining the Object of this Constitution, the provisions of
this Constitution shall be applied to settle such concerns.
28. CASUAL VACANCIES
a) Any casual vacancy for an elected or appointed member of
the Council which occurs during any Official’s term of
office may be filled by the Council from among the Council
members, (except in relation to the Chairperson where
relevant provisions in this Constitution shall apply).
b) The term of office for an official of the Council who is
appointed to fill a vacancy shall expire at the conclusion of
the next AGM except in the case of the Deputy Chairperson
and the Finance Manager where persons elected shall serve
for the remainder of the term.
c) On the expiry of such Official’s office the vacancy shall be
determined by election under the provisions of this
Constitution.
d) Provisions of this Rule may be used by the Affiliate
associations in similar manner with the relevant
modifications agreed at an AGM of that affiliate
association.
29. CONDITIONS FOR CASUAL VACANCY
(1.) For the purposes of Rule 28, a casual vacancy arises if an
Official:
a) Dies; or
b) Resigns from office;
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c) Becomes bankrupt, applies to take the benefit of any law
for the relief of bankrupt or insolvent debtors,
compounds with his or her creditors, or makes any
assignment of his or her estate for their benefit; or
d) Is or becomes disqualified from acting as an Official of,
or managing, a corporation under the
Corporations/Companies Act or other similar legislation;
or
e) Resigns office by notice in writing given to the Secretary
General; or
f) Is removed from office under provisions of this
Constitution; or
g) Becomes a mentally incapacitated person; or
h) Is absent without the consent of the Council from three
consecutive meetings of the Council held or is absent
during a period of 6 months without the consent of the
Council approved by the Board thus and hence ceases
from directly being involved in the Management of
HOCUSA.
(2) The Chairperson shall be elected at the AGM according to
the provisions of this Constitution. A casual vacancy in the
office of the Chairperson shall be filled by the Deputy
Chairperson for the remainder of that term.
(3) Except after Rule 29(2) is effected an election may be
conducted for the Deputy Chairperson if the vacancy is
created at least 2 years to the expiry of the current office term.
(4) The election described under this Rule shall be conducted
by all members of the Association registered and eligible to
vote at an SGM called at least, and not beyond 3 months after
the assumption of office by the DC.
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(5) A person elected as the Deputy Chairperson as under Rule
29(3) shall perform their duties until the subsequent election
period.
(6) The provisions of this Rule shall be applied to the Affiliate
associations with relevant modifications.
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CHAPTER VI FUNCTIONS OF VARIOUS ORGANS OF
HOCUSA
30. FUNCTIONS OF THE COUNCIL AND THE
SECRETARIAT
(1.) The Council:
a) Acts for and on behalf of HOCUSA in the exercise of
the functions of HOCUSA.
b) Has the control and management of the affairs, resources
and interests of HOCUSA.
c) Shall have representations in every Affiliate associations
formed under this Association who shall be a signatory
to the Bank account of the Affiliate association’s
according to Rule 14(xiv).
d) Performs the overall management duties of all the
Affiliate associations under HOCUSA.
e) Shall be the Chief Custodian of all Resources of the
Association and its Affiliate associations.
f) May do all acts and act in all matters concerning
HOCUSA or its Affiliate associations in such manner
as appears to be best calculated to promote the object and
interests of HOCUSA and/or the Affiliate associations.
g) Prepare budgets for the Association.
h) Set aside money and other resources budgeted for and
required by the Affiliate associations in a manner
considerate to the collections and activities of each
Affiliate association’s for a particular financial period.
i) Advice the Affiliates’ Executives on all matters of
relevance.
j) Shall be responsible for the hiring of personnel and
contractors required by the Association or its Affiliate
associations.
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k) Oversee the implementation of HOCUSA policies,
procedures and strategies, and the performance of
HOCUSA. l) Develop strategies, policies and procedures for the
administration, promotion and development of the
objectives of the Association.
m) Charged with the responsibility of developing and
maintaining the overall Human Resource required for the
Association.
n) Develop the mission statement, strategic direction,
annual budget and business plan of HOCUSA.
(2.) The Secretariat:
In managing the affairs and concerns of HOCUSA and
without limiting the functions of the Council under Rule
30(1), the Secretariat shall:
a) Develop prudent policies and procedures and oversee
risk assessment and management to protect and
effectively manage finances, resources and property of
HOCUSA.
b) Management and control HOCUSA policies and
agendas.
c) Develop, organize, deliver and participate in programmes
of education and training of Members in various areas of
application and to enhance collective social development
in partnership with relevant organizations and agencies.
d) Fundraise and apply funds in accord with object of this
Constitution.
e) Enter into and/or terminate contracts with sponsors, other
persons, agencies and organizations.
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f) Acquire by purchase, lease or grant any property or
rights to manage, let, sell, exchange or otherwise deal
with property of HOCUSA.
g) Disseminate private or other information about members
with their consent, via written declaration and subject to
the purpose being in accordance with the objects of
HOCUSA.
h) Subscribe to, affiliate to and co-operate with kindred or
other organizations regional, national and international.
i) To produce, create, develop, license and otherwise use,
exploit and protect the property and materials of
HOCUSA.
j) To do all such other things as are incidental or conducive
to the attainment of the objects of HOCUSA.
k) Open and operate in an accredited bank HOCUSA
account(s) and designate the signatories to the account(s)
as per the By Laws.
l) Regularly review its performance and the achievements
of the Association.
m) Determine the terms and conditions of employment
if any, regularly review the employment performance,
remuneration and professional development needs, and,
if it considers appropriate, terminate any employment,
n) Perform all other functions assigned under this
Constitution, the By-Laws and deliberate on the Board’s
decisions and.
o) Represent the interests of the Association to relevant
bodies including partners, governments and other
organizations.
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31. FUNCTIONS OF THE CHAIRPERSON TO
THE COUNCIL
(a) Provide overall leadership to the Council especially on
areas of policy development.
(b) Ensure the strategies of HOCUSA are achieved.
(c) Encourage Council’s members to participate fully in the
deliberations of the Council.
(d) Conduct Council’s meetings professionally and
efficiently by guiding the Council decision making
process.
(e) Head the Council’s self-evaluation process and
generally mentor the Council membership into
leadership.
(f)Harness the collective skills of the Council and its
Committees.
(g) Create appropriate synergies between the Council, the
Board and the Association.
(h) Serve as the public face of HOCUSA on all matters of
policy and strategy.
(i) Ensure the efficient implementation of the Council’s
decisions, agendas and functions.
(j) Ensure that of all members of the Council perform their
duties efficiently and responsibly.
32. FUNCTIONS OF THE ADVISORY BOARD
The Advisory Board shall;
a) Advice the Association on all matters of relevance to the
Association.
b) Advice the Council, officials and members of the
Association on any matter of relevance to enhance its
operations and functions.
c) Negotiate with other bodies on behalf of the Association.
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d) Guide the implementation of this Constitution, and the
development of the Strategic Plan.
e) Recommend and appoint Members of the Council with
exceptional achievements to the Association to serve in
any position in the Association.
f) Be responsible for guiding the transition process after
every election.
g) Be the central coordinating body of all the activities of
the Association.
h) Develop other structures necessary for the attainment of
the objectives of HOCUSA.
i) Oversee the overall operations of the Association; and
j) Perform all other functions in this Constitution and in the
By-Laws, or as determined by the Association.
33. FUNCTIONS OF THE BOARD’S
CHAIRPERSON
The person appointed the Chair to the Board shall-
i. Provide overall leadership to the Board especially on
areas of policy development;
ii. Guide the process of formulation and the implementation
process of the strategy of HOCUSA;
iii. Encourage Board’s members to fully participate in the
deliberations of the Board;
iv. Chair the Board’s meetings professionally and efficiently
by guiding the Board decision making process;
v. Guide the process of identifying partners to the
Association;
vi. Head the Board’s self-evaluation process and generally
mentor the Board membership into leadership.
vii. Ensure that all the Board members have definite roles to
play in accordance to the functions mandated to the
Board.
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viii. Perform other roles mandated to him or her by the Board.
34. TERM OF OFFICE OF THE MEMBERS OF
THE BOARD
i. All members of the Board shall be nominated by the
Council and subject to resolution by a minimum
majority of the members of the Association present, be
confirmed to serve for a period not less than five
years, which shall be renewable in accordance to this
Constitution.
ii. Despite Rule 34(i), the Pioneers of the Association in the
Board will not be affected by any process of
recruitment of Board members.
iii. A Board member may resign from office by writing to
the Patron.
iv. The Board shall set other conditions to guide this Rule.
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CHAPTER VII MEETINGS OF THE COUNCIL,
POWERS AND REMOVAL FROM OFFICE
35. MEETINGS OF THE COUNCIL
i) The Council shall meet at such places and times, and in
such manner, as it shall determine.
ii) A written record will be made of the decisions taken at
each meeting, and confirmed at the next meeting of the
Council. These records are to be taken and kept by the
Secretary General in a secure place, and copies of them
must be provided to a member of the Council on request.
iii) Copies of such records may be made available to
Members of HOCUSA at the discretion of the
Secretary General and the Chairperson, subject to the
requirements of commercial confidentiality, personal
privacy, and similar considerations.
iv) The Council meeting shall have a quorum of not less
than half of its members.
36. CHAIRING AND VOTING AT THE COUNCIL
MEETING
a) The Chairperson or in his/her absence the Deputy
Chairperson or in their absence any other Official as
determined by the Council, shall chair Council meetings.
b) All Officials shall have the right to attend, speak and
vote at all Council meetings.
c) A meeting of the Council may be held where one or
more of the Officials is or are not physically present at
the meeting, provided that:
i) All persons participating in the meeting are able to
communicate with each other effectively,
simultaneously and instantaneously;
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ii) Notice of the meeting is given to all Officials in
accordance with the procedures agreed from time to
time by the Council and such notice specifies at the
mode of the meeting; and
iii) If a failure in communications prevents condition
(i) above from being satisfied and such failure
results in the quorum not being met, the meeting
shall be suspended until condition (i) is satisfied.
iv) If such condition is not satisfied within a
reasonable time (as determined by the
Chairperson) from the interruption, the meeting
shall be deemed to have ended or be adjourned
unless the Chairperson, on the advice of the
Secretary General, determines that a further
extension is warranted.
37. VALIDITY OF A RESOLUTION BY THE
OFFICIALS
1- A resolution in writing signed or agreed to and
acknowledged by facsimile or other form of visible
communication, including email, by the majority of Officials
shall be as valid and effective as if it had been passed at a
meeting of Officials. Its validity must be re-confirmed and
recorded in the minutes of the Council meeting following
agreement to it.
2- Such resolution may consist of several documents in like
form each signed or visibly agreed to and acknowledged by
each Official.
3- Each Official shall have one vote on all decisions and
resolutions of the Council. All decisions and resolutions of the
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Council shall be determined by a vote of a majority of
Officials present at a Council Meeting.
4- a) Subject to Rule 37(3), voting may be verbal, by show of
hands, or secret ballot (if requested by any one Official but
must be supported by two third majority of those present)
-b) If the voting is equal the Chairperson or, in his/her
absence, the Official who chairs the meeting shall have a
casting vote.
5- There shall be no fewer than ten (10) Officials present at a
Council’s Meeting (including a meeting held subject to Rule
34 to constitute a quorum.)
38. RESPONSIBILITIES OF OFFICIALS AND
OFFICERS
i. Without limiting their legal and fiduciary duties and
responsibilities, the standards set out in Schedule Two are
applicable to Members of the Council, and all officials
according to this Constitution.
ii. These standards also apply to Officers of HOCUSA to
the extent that is appropriate to their specific roles and
responsibilities.
39. REMOVAL OF OFFICIALS
1- Subject to provisions of this Constitution, the Members in
a SGM called solely for this purpose may by Special
Resolution remove any Official from the Council before
the expiry of their term of office in the account of any
ground of gross misconduct, violation of any provision of
this Constitution or any other law of the Association,
incapacitation of any kind or form, or any other ground
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stated under this Constitution. The vacancy created by this
removal shall be filled by the Council in accordance with
this Constitution.
2- A member may seek to have an official removed from
office by issuing a request of notice of SGM to the
Council through the Secretary General.
3- Upon the Secretary General receiving a request for an
SGM as specified in this Constitution for the purpose of
removing an Official, the Secretary General shall send the
notice to the Official concerned, and to the Council, and
the Members as required under this Constitution.
4- Following notification to the relevant Official under Rule
39(3), and before voting on the resolution to remove that
Official, the Official affected by the proposed resolution
shall be given the opportunity prior to, and at, the Special
General Meeting, to make submissions in writing and/or
verbally to the Council, and the Members about the
proposed resolution.
5- A Special body may be formed by the Council to further
investigate the official affected before the matter is
brought to the ASG.
6- The report of the Special Committee formed above will be
submitted to the Council upon completion, and the
Council, upon receiving the report shall inform the
members of the Association, who will take any necessary
action or make relevant resolution as advised in the report
of the Special Committee.
7- The Council and the members shall determine reasonable
grounds to affect the proposed resolution or to disallow
any further action on the matter.
8- If the grounds found do not warrant the removal from
office by the members, the matter shall be forwarded to
the Disciplinary Committee which shall enforce
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disciplinary actions on the official concerned within
fourteen (14) days from the date the Committee receives
the complaint.
9- Any matter forwarded to the Disciplinary Committee will
be handled according to the provisions of this
Constitution.
40. COMMITTEES OF HOCUSA
a) HOCUSA shall have the following Committees with
roles as outlined in this Constitution.
1. Committees of the Association; and
2. Committees of the Affiliate associations.
1. COMMITTEES OF THE ASSOCIATION
Notwithstanding any decision of members of this
Association and the powers of the Council, there shall be
the following Committees.
1. The Welfare Committee;
2. The Project Committee;
3. The Fund Committee;
4. The Amalgamation Committee;
5. The Disciplinary Committee.
2. COMMITTEES OF THE AFFILIATE
ASSOCIATION’SES
1. The Welfare Committee;
2. The Project Panel;
3. The Revolving Fund Committee;
Despite the above Committees at the affiliate level, an
affiliate association shall have the right to constitute any
additional committee as it deems fit for the attainment of
any set objectives.
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b) OTHER COMMITTEES AND DELEGATES
1. Subject to provisions of this Constitution, the Council,
or in case of an affiliate association, the Executive, may,
by instrument in writing create, establish or appoint
committees consisting of such persons and numbers it
shall think fit.
2. The Chairperson and Council may, in relation to any
matter, or in relation to any activity or function of
HOCUSA, by resolution, delegate all or any of its
functions (except this power of delegation or as per a
Rule under this Constitution) to a committee appointed
under this Rule, any member of such committee or the
Secretary General.
3. A committee created under Rule 40 b(1), or any other
person to whom authority has been delegated under Rule
40 b(2) or Rule 40 b(8) must:
i. Comply with the terms of the instrument of
delegation in exercising the powers delegated by the
Council;
ii. Exercise the powers delegated to it in accordance
with any directions of the Council; and,
iii. Comply with this Constitution and the By-Laws;
and
iv. Uphold the Object of this Constitution and the
interests of the Association.
4. The Council in establishing such committees or
delegating authority must not delegate a function
imposed on the Council or an Affiliate association of this
Association by any other law, or this Constitution, or by
resolution of the Members in a General Meeting.
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5. A Committee created under Rule 40b may elect a person
to chair its meetings unless otherwise directed by the
Council. If no such person is elected, or if at any meeting
the Committee Chairperson is not present within 15
minutes after the time appointed for holding the meeting,
the Committee members present at the meeting may elect
one of their members to chair the meeting.
6. A Committee created under Rule 40b may meet and
adjourn as it deems appropriate.
7. A resolution of a committee must be passed by a
majority of votes of the Committee members present and
entitled to vote on the resolution.
8. The Council may delegate any of its powers to one or
more Officials.
9. An Official to whom any powers have been so delegated
must exercise the powers delegated in accordance with
this Constitution.
10. An act done by a person acting as an Official or by
a meeting of Officials or a Committee attended by a
person acting as an Official is not invalidated by reason
only of:
a) A defect in the appointment of the person as an
Official.
b) The person being disqualified to be an Official or
having vacated office; or
c) The person not being entitled to vote.
- If that circumstance was not known by the
person or, the Official or the Committee, as the
case may be when the act was done.
11. The appointment of a member to serve as a delegate
of the Association shall be done by the Secretariat and
based on the following considerations, and not limiting
other regulations to beset by the Association-
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a) The member must have been a member the
Association for a period not less than three years;
b) The member must have made significant
contribution and assistance to the Association in
the past;
c) Must be willing to serve in the Association to help
in developing and executing the objects of the
Association.
d) Must have been paying all dues charged on
members of the Association.
41. COMPOSITIONS AND FUNCTIONS OF
COMMITTEES
1. THE COMMITTEES OF THE ASSOCIATION
1) The Welfare Committee
i. The Welfare Committee shall be formed by:
a) The Association’s Deputy Chairperson who shall be
its Chairperson.
b) All the Vice Chairpersons of all the Affiliate
associations.
c) Two members, being a male and a female, chosen
from the Welfare Committees of every Affiliate
associations.
d) The Finance Manager.
e) All the Unit representatives from all learning
institutions from which members are drawn.
f) One other member nominated by the Council.
2) Functions of the Welfare Committee
The Welfare Committee shall;
i. Ensure that the interests of members of the
Association are considered as appropriate.
ii. Have the authority to determine welfare issues and
propose mechanisms to address them and advise the
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Affiliate association’s Welfare bodies on such actions
related to welfare matters.
iii. Be in charge of all the Welfares of members of the
Association.
iv. Determine members’ contribution in case of any
matter touching the life of a member and that the
Association has jurisdiction over and pass such
determination to the Affiliate association’s Welfare
bodies for appropriate action.
v. Work in liaison with the Affiliate associations
Welfare Committees in structuring and securing
efficient administration of welfare matters.
vi. Advice the Affiliate’s Welfare Committees on matters
of welfare.
vii. Keep and maintain true records of members, benefits
to members and determine a procedure of sharing any
benefits on the welfare docket by members.
viii. Responsible for calculating the welfare dividends for
all the members and circulating such dividends to the
Affiliate association’s Welfare Committees for
distribution to members.
ix. Shall operate the Association’s Welfare account and
be responsible for the custody of all welfare
collections and allocations.
x. Receive any such welfare collections, distributions
and allocations from any Organ under the
Association.
xi. Perform any other such duties as necessary to protect
and preserve the welfare of members; and,
xii. Do other duties and roles as shall be assigned under
this Constitution, or as assigned by the Council.
3) The Project Committee
i. Composition of the Project Committee:
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It shall be composed of:
1. The Project Manager of the Association who shall be the
Chair to the Committee.
2. All the Project Coordinators of the Affiliate associations.
3. Two members, being a male and a female, from each
Afffiliate Project panel.
4. The Organizing Secretary of the Association.
5. Two other members nominated by the Council from
amongst its members.
ii. The Committee shall elect a member from the Affiliate
association’s Project Coordinators to be the Vice Chair to
the Committee.
4) Functions of the Project Committee
It shall;
i. Determine the kinds and nature of the projects to be
undertaken by the Association and advice the Council
appropriately.
ii. Evaluate the nature of projects and give
recommendations to the AGM or SGM.
iii. Advice the Association on the prospects of any activity
intended by the Association including the Affiliate
association’s activities.
iv. Shall conduct assessments of any kind on behalf of the
Association.
v. Formulate other ways of generating funds to the
Association and make recommendations to the
Association.
vi. Manage, coordinate and supervise all the projects under
the Association.
vii. Make reports on the status of the Projects and issue such
reports on request by Members or Organs of the
Association.
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viii. Formulate regulations to govern the Projects of the
Association.
ix. Advice the Affiliate Project Panels on project matters.
x. Approve Affiliate associations proposals, projects and
any other activity intended to generate income to the
Affiliate associations.
xi. Make such determinations to what amount(s) of money a
member shall pay for a particular project that is to be
conducted by the Association.
xii. Perform any other duty under this Constitution or as
assigned by the Council.
5) The Fund Committee
Shall be composed of;
1. The Finance Manager who shall be it Chair.
2. All the Treasurers of the Affiliate associations.
3. Two members, being a male and a female, from each
Affiliate’s Revolving Fund Committee.
4. Two members, being a male and a female, from each of
the Affiliate’s Welfare Committee.
5. One other member nominated by the Association.
6) Functions of the Fund Committee
It shall;
i. To enforce a sustainable circulation of the
association’s profits and benefits equitably among the
Affiliate associations.
ii. To determine proportions of the Associations
incomes to be shared among the members, and the
criteria for sharing.
iii. To develop systems for enhancing members’ social
security funds and determine systems for savings
towards the funds.
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iv. To spearhead fund raisers and similar activities
intended by the Association or the Affiliate
associations for the purpose of raising financial
support for activities.
v. Perform any other duty under this Constitution or as
assigned by the Council.
7) The Amalgamation Committee
Membership of the Amalgamation Committee
It shall be composed of;
1. The Secretary General of the Association who shall be its
Chair.
2. The Deputy Secretary General, who shall deputise the
SG.
3. All the Affiliate Secretaries and the Vice Secretaries.
4. One member nominated by the Affiliate associations.
8) The Functions of the Amalgamation committee.
1. Consider applications of memberships by interested
parties and recruit new members to the Association
subject to the approval by the Council.
2. Prepare, design, issue and collect membership forms
as required.
3. Discuss conduct of a member who the Association has
sufficient cause to believe, is inappropriate and
deserves the attention of the Association thereby
advising the association as may be appropriate.
9) The Disciplinary Committee
Shall be composed of the;
1. Three members of the Advisory Board, one of whom
shall be the Chairperson and the other the Vice
Chairperson to the Committee;
2. Two members, one being male and the other female,
elected by the members in an AGM; and
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3. One (1) Institution Representative elected from each
institution Affiliate association during their AGM, from
amongst the members of each Affiliate associations.
Members of the Affiliate associations elected into this
Committee shall not be officials at the Headquarters or at
the Affiliate associations.
The term of office for all the members of the Disciplinary
Committee shall be five years and is renewable.
10) Functions of Disciplinary Committee
i. The Disciplinary Committee shall;
a) Be responsible for the development of disciplinary
mechanisms to be used by the Association and all its
Affiliate associations.
b) Advice the Association and all the Affiliate associations
on disciplinary matters.
c) Implement disciplinary procedures and impose sanctions
and penalties subject to resolutions by Members of the
Association.
d) Hear and determine all the disciplinary cases between the
members of the Association.
e) Shall make recommendations to the Council and the
Executives on disciplinary mechanisms and actions.
f) Shall formulate, operationalize all the disciplinary
procedures of the Association and the Affiliate
associations.
g) Perform any other duty under this Constitution or as
assigned by the Council.
ii. Except by provisions of this Constitution, a member may
only belong to up to a maximum of two committees of the
Association.
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iii. Despite any provision under this Rule, affiliate
associations shall form a body to perform the functions of a
Disciplinary Committee.
2. COMMITTEES OF THE AFFILIATE
ASSOCIATION’SES
a) Each Affiliate associations shall have the following
Committees with roles as outlined in this Constitution or as
provided thereon.
1. The Welfare Committee;
2. The Project Panel;
3. The Revolving Fund Committee.
1. The Welfare Committee
There shall be the Welfare Committee responsible for welfare
matters at the Affiliate association’s level referred to as W.C
is hereby established.
1-i The Welfare Committee shall be composed of:
1. The Vice Chairperson;
2. Secretary;
3. Project Coordinator; and
4. 6 co-opted members.
-ii The Co-opted members of this committee shall be
nominated and appointed by the Members in an AGM or in a
SGM.
-iii The Welfare Committee shall be chaired by the VC of the
Affiliate association’s and may appoint other officers from the
Committee as it deems right. The Committee reserves the
right to delegate the roles of the individual members,
including that of its chair in case;
i. The Member ceases to belong to the Group as
prescribed in this Constitution;
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ii. The Committee suspends, for any reasons in its
prerogative, the member from its meetings for a
period not less than 3 weeks;
iii. If the suspension exceeds 3 weeks, the Committee
shall seek the determination of the Executive
Committee concerning the Member in question.
iv. Upon the determination of the opinion of the
Executive Committee referred above, the Affiliate
associations or the Council shall undertake the
necessary actions in regard to the subject thereof.
-iv The officials referred to in this sub-rule shall conduct their
duties under the direct control of the Chair of the WC and
shall have the powers to suggest decisions to be considered
for adoption by the Group.
-v The Chairperson of the W.C, or one in a similar capacity,
shall be responsible for the effective running of the
Committee.
-vi The Welfare Committee shall;
i. Ensure that all the interest of Affiliate association’s
members are met;
ii. Have the authority to determine welfare issues and
propose mechanisms to address them;
iii. Be in charge of all the Welfares of members;
iv. Be responsible, and in liaison with the Revolving Fund
Committee, manage all social duties and functions of
the Affiliate association’s;
v. Enforce the decision of the Welfare Committee of the
Association on members contribution in case of any
matter touching the life of a member and that the
Association has jurisdiction over;
vi. Perform any other such duties as necessary to protect
and preserve the welfare of members; and;
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vii. Do other duties and roles as shall be assigned under
this Constitution, or as assigned by the Association.
2. Project Panel
The Project Panel is hereby established. It shall be referred to
as to as P.P
1-iThe Project Panel shall be comprised of;
i. The Project Coordinator, who shall be its Chair at the
Affiliate association’s level,
ii. The Secretary,
iii. At least 15 other members nominated by the Affiliate
associations.
-ii Unless stated in this Constitution, the P.P shall conduct its
meetings;
i. At any time as it shall consider necessary to formulate its
agendas or develop the agenda of the Project Committee;
ii. Upon request by the E.C of the Affiliate association’s or
the Project Committee;
iii. At such places as it shall determine.
-iii The meetings of the P.P shall be chaired by the Project
Manager, or the SG in the latter’s absence.
-2. Duties of the Project Panel
The Project Panel shall;
i. Determine the kinds and nature of the projects to be
undertaken by the Group and advice the E.C
appropriately;
ii. Evaluate the nature of projects and give
recommendations to the AGM or SGM;
iii. Advice the Affiliate association’s on the prospects of any
activity intended by the Affiliate association’s;
iv. Shall conduct assessments of any kind on behalf of the
Affiliate association’s;
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v. Formulate other ways of generating funds to the Affiliate
association’s and make recommendations to the Affiliate
association’s;
vi. Manage, coordinate and supervise all the projects under
the Affiliate association’s;
vii. Make reports on the status of the Projects and issue such
reports on request by Members or Organs of the Affiliate
association’s;
viii. Formulate regulations to govern the Projects of the
Affiliate associations,
ix. Make such determinations to what amount(s) of money a
member shall pay for a particular project that is to be
conducted by the Affiliate associations.
-3. The Revolving Fund Committee
-i There shall be a Revolving Fund Committee at every
Affiliate association’s whose role shall be;
i. To enforce a sustainable circulation of the
Affiliate association’s profits and benefits among
members;
ii. To determine proportions of the Affiliate
association’s incomes to be shared among the
members, and the criteria for sharing upon advice
by the Fund Committee;
iii. To develop systems for enhancing members’ social
security funds and determine systems for savings
towards the funds.
iv. Implementing the decisions of the Council, The
fund Committee or the EC of the Affiliate
associations.
-ii. Membership of the Revolving Fund Committee
The Members of the RFC shall not exceed thirteen (13) and
not less than three (7) at any given point.
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The Members shall be;
1. The Treasurer;
2. A member nominated by the Project Panel;
3. A member nominated by the Welfare Committee;
4. At least one member nominated by every Affiliate
association.
5. The Finance Manager or his appointee at the Affiliate
associations, and shall be a Special Member.
-iii. A member under ii above shall not be the Secretary.
a. Membership of the RFC shall not have all its
members being of the same gender.
b. The member nominated by the Affiliate associations
shall not be an elected Official of the Affiliate
association.
-iv The Treasurer to the Affiliate association’s shall be
Chairperson to the RFC.
-4 The provisions under this Rule shall be applied similarly in
all the Affiliate associations.
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CHAPTER VIII MEETINGS OF MEMBERS
42. MEETING OF THE ADVISORY BOARD
i. Subject to the discretion of the Board, the Board shall
meet at such a place, time and in such frequencies as it
determines.
ii. Rule 42(i) shall not apply to an AGM or SGM under this
Constitution.
11) All the Committees shall have the power to formulate
regulations to guide their meetings accordingly. Such
regulations shall be presented to the Council, which shall
approve or amend as it thinks fit. The approved regulations
shall form part of the By-Laws for the Association after
approval by the Registrar accordingly.
12) All the Committees under this Association shall after
formulation or Constitution make the required regulations
under this Constitution within four months after the
commencement of their duties.
43. TYPES AND FREQUENCY OF MEETINGS
a) The Members shall meet at least once a year which shall be
at the AGM of HOCUSA. They may also meet at any other
time in a SGM called under this Constitution.
b) The AGM of HOCUSA shall be held no later than 31th
December in each calendar year.
c) All Meetings of Members other than the AGM shall be
SGMs and shall be held in accordance with this
Constitution.
d) An SGM may be called at any time by the Council, by
giving written notice to the Affiliate associations as
required under this Constitution or By-Laws.
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e) A group of not less than twenty (20) members from each
Affiliate association’s may seek the permission of the
Council to call an SGM after supplying sufficient reasons
to the Council in a signed petition form bearing the names
of the petitioners and their Affiliate associations.
f) The Council shall determine the ground of such request and
act appropriately.
g) Members of an Affiliate associations may through a
petition to the Affiliate association’s Executive Committee
to convene a meeting to discuss any matter of interest to the
Affiliate association at any time provided that the matter(s)
so referred are within the jurisdiction of the Affiliate
association.
h) A petition referred to in rule (g) above shall be signed by at
least one third of all the members of the Affiliate
association’s and delivered to the Secretary of the Affiliate
association.
i) The Affiliate association’s Executive Committee will
determine the merit and timing of the petition and shall act
by calling for an SGM of the Affiliate association’s if the
petition is called no fewer than six (6) months to the
Association’s AGM and/or reject the petition in case where
a notice of an SGM has been issued by the SG as required
under this Constitution and the date to the SGM is no fewer
than three (3) weeks from the time the petition is received
and in which case the Affiliate association’s Executive shall
forward the petition to the Council for a ruling .
j) The ruling under rule (i) above shall either be to convene
the SGM of the Affiliate association’s during the SGM or
to forward the date of the SGM as appropriate.
k) For purposes of rules seeking a decision of Members, the
SG shall act within a reasonable time to give notice of a
SGM, after the approval of the Council, that period not
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being more than three months from the date of acceptance
of the petition.
44. PROCEDURES AT THE MEETINGS
a. At all meetings of the Association the Chairperson, or in his
absence, the vice-Chairperson, or in the absence of both
these officers, the Secretary General shall take the chair.
b. The Chairperson may at his discretion limit the number of
persons permitted to speak in favour of and against any
motion.
c. Resolutions shall be decided by simple voting by a show of
hands, acclamation or through secret ballot. In the case of
equality of votes, the Chairperson or one in a similar
capacity shall have a second or casting vote.
d. The Chairperson shall ensure order is maintained during the
meeting and shall have the right to expel a disorderly
member from meetings and set other penalties therewith for
such members.
e. The provisions of this Rule shall be used to guide Affiliate
association’s meetings.
f. Rule (e) above shall not apply to a SGM called by the
Council.
45. POWERS OF AGM/SGM MEETINGS
1. Meetings of Members shall act in accordance with this
Constitution, and for the mutual and collective benefit of
HOCUSA, the Members, and members of the society.
2. The Meetings of Members shall have the power to:
a) Confirm and endorse the major strategic directions of
HOCUSA and any proposed changes to them.
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b) Approve the Affiliate association’s and the Association’s
budgets.
c) Alter this Constitution by Special Resolution as provided
in this Constitution.
d) Review and comment on the performance of HOCUSA,
the Council and other Organs of this Association and the
Affiliate associations.
e) Determine matters referred to it under this Constitution
or by bodies and officers of the Association.
f) Elect the Chairperson, VC, SG, VSG, Finance Manager,
Project Coordinator, Public Relations Officer and to
nominate other Office bearers and where appropriate
under this Constitution, terminate the membership of the
Council, the Organs of this Association and other
officials, including the Committees created under this
Constitution.
g) Nominate and present for approval of the Council,
persons to be appointed as the Patron, the Matron and the
Vice- Patron if any, subject to this Constitution.
h) Discuss and advise the Council and the Executive
Committees, on any matter referred to it by the Council
or on which an absolute majority of Members attending a
Meeting agree to so consider.
i) Perform any other duty as outlined in this Constitution or
as mandated by the Organs of this Association.
j) An AGM of an affiliate association shall perform any
other duty relevant to that affiliate association and elect
its officials as required by this Constitution.
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CHAPTER IX FINANCIAL MATTERS
46. FINANCIAL YEAR
i. The financial year of HOCUSA shall start on 1st of
January and end on 31st December the same year.
ii. The financial year of all the Affiliate associations shall
be 1st of January and shall end on 31st December the
same year.
47. FUNDS
a) The funds of HOCUSA may be derived from
Membership Fees, donations, sponsorships, interest
earnings from projects of the Association and its Affiliate
associations, grants, and such other sources as the
Council determines.
b) The Chairperson, Finance Manager and the Secretary
General, may sign, draw, accept, endorse or otherwise
execute a negotiable instrument. This provision is subject
to the Council determining by resolution that a
negotiable instrument may be signed, drawn, accepted,
endorsed or otherwise executed in a different way.
c) The Council shall determine by resolution the basis upon
which other transfers of money, including electronic
transfer, can be made and accepted and shall specify the
authority necessary for various classes of such transfers
and limits to such authority.
d) The Council has authority to authorize any such transfer
for any amount for the purpose of fulfilling its own
responsibilities under this Constitution.
e) All moneys and funds to the Association, other than
those paid to the Affiliate association’s Treasurer, shall
be received by and paid to the Finance Manager and shall
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be deposited by him/her in the name of the Association
in any bank or banks approved by the Council.
f) True accounts shall be kept of the sum of money
received and expended by HOCUSA and the manner in
respect of which such receipt and expenditure takes place
and of the property, assets and liabilities of HOCUSA
shall be open to the inspection by the Members through
their authorized representative, and the Board.
g) All the funds and money belonging to the Association
shall be used in a manner to further the Objects of the
Association subject to Rule 57.
h) At least once in every year the accounts of HOCUSA
shall be examined by one or more registered company
auditors who shall report to the Members in accordance
with generally accepted accountancy principles and/or
practices and/or the provisions of the By-Laws.
48. BANK ACCOUNT
i. There shall be Bank account(s) opened by HOCUSA
under its name.
ii. The Bank Account(s) shall;
a) Save, keep and or store all the funds of HOCUSA;
b) Be operated only by the authorized person(s) with
an expressed authority of the Council.
iii. For purpose of Rule 48 ii(b), the authority of the Council
shall be in writing and signed by all members of the
Council, bearing the authority of the Council and shall
be used for the agenda of Rule 48 (ii) and, or any other
Rule under this Constitution.
iv. Notwithstanding provisions of this Constitution,
Affiliate associations shall have registered bank accounts
manned by:
1. The Chairperson of the Affiliate association’s;
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2. The Treasurer;
3. The Affiliate association’s Secretary; and
v. No transactions at the bank account of a Affiliate
associations, other than deposits of moneys collected or
received by the Affiliate association’s or cheques, shall
be made without an express authority given in writing to
the bank by the Executive of that affiliate.
vi. The Authorized parties under Rule 48ii (b) shall include;
1. The Chairperson.
2. Finance Manager; and
3. The Secretary General.
vii. In the absence of any of the above signatories to the
Bank account, there shall be no any transactions to the
accounts, unless the Association, through writing to the
Bank Management, makes a request in line with the
provisions of the Bank’s Regulations.
viii. The letter referred to in Rule 48b (v) may only be
written by the Finance Manager and approved by the
Council and shall in addition, bear the signatures of at
least five (5) members of the Board members,
including the Patron, present at the meeting in which
the matter thereof is discussed.
ix. The SG shall keep in his/her custody the copies of
National IDs, pass port photos, email addresses and any
other information required by the Association, financial
institutions affiliated to the Association, registering
authority or under the Act. Such information shall only
be shared by the Association subject to the terms of
agreements signed by it and other parties.
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x. Authorized parties referred to in Rule 48b (iv) shall be
changed after an election in which case different persons
are elected in the capacities herein.
xi. The Finance Manager may keep a sum of money not
exceeding Kshs. 100, 000.00 for petty disbursement of
which proper account must be kept.
xii. Affiliate Treasurers may keep a sum of money not
exceeding kshs. 10, 000 for petty disbursement of
which proper account must be kept.
xiii. The Council shall have the power to suspend any office
bearer who it has reasonable cause to believe is not
properly accounting for any of the funds or property of
the Association and subject to any rule in this
Constitution, have power to appoint another person in
his/ her place.
xiv. A suspension under Rule 48(x) above shall be reported
to the Management Committee which shall undertake
any necessary measure to ensure an election of a new
official is undertaken within a period not more than 3
weeks from the date of such suspension.
xv.The absence stated in Rule 48b (v) shall include
sickness, death or inability of the member to act in
reasonable judgement in the discharge of his/her
functions, and shall be supported by a relevant document
in its support.
xvi. Absenteeism arising from disciplinary actions or
casual vacancies shall be handled in the best
appropriate manner not to sabotage the Association.
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49. ANNUAL REPORT
a) The Council and the Executives shall prepare an Annual
Report for presentation to the AGM which contains:
i. The audited annual financial statements as required
under the Act, and, shall include financial
reports/statements of the Affiliate associations.
ii. An annual report of the year’s activities, including an
assessment of progress made during the year in the
achievement of the various components of the
Strategic Plan of the Association and the achievements
made by each Affiliate associations.
iii. Each Affiliate association’s shall be required to
prepare and send their updated reports to all its
members and to the Head Office through any possible
means, including emails, print forms and via fax, not
later than two (2) week to the day of the AGM.
iv. The report of the Association, other than the audit
report statement, shall be presented to all members
during the AGM in a form accessible to members at
the meeting, and shall contain summaries from all the
Affiliate associations.
b) The annual financial statements in Rule 49 a (i) shall be
audited by an auditor appointed by the AGM. The
auditor may be a practicing chartered accountant.
c) An auditor shall be appointed for the following year by
the annual general meeting. All the Association's
accounts, records and documents shall be opened to the
inspection of the auditor at any time. The Finance
Manager shall produce an account of his receipts and
payments and a statement of assets and liabilities made
up to a date which shall not be less than six weeks and
not more than three months before the date of the annual
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general meeting. The auditor shall examine such annual
accounts and statements and either clarify that they are
correct, duly vouched and in accordance with the law or
report to the Association in what respect they are found
to be incorrect, unvouched or not in accordance with the
law.
d) A copy of the auditor's report on the accounts and
statements together with such accounts and statements
shall be furnished to all members at the same time as the
notice convening the annual general meeting is sent out,
this not being later than one month to the day of the
AGM. The financial reports shall also include that of
every Affiliate association.
e) An auditor may be paid such honorarium for his duties as
may be resolved by the annual general meeting
appointing him.
f) No auditor shall be an office bearer or a member of the
Association.
50. COMMON STAMP
i. HOCUSA shall have a common stamp that shall be the
authority of the Association.
ii. The stamp shall be used in all documents of
correspondence, receipts and any other areas as
determined by the Council.
iii. For the purpose of the function of the stamp, every
Affiliate association shall design a stamp to be used by
its Executive Committee subject to approval of the
Council.
iv. Unless stated in this Constitution, the Common Stamp
shall also be a material of the Association.
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51. THE AUTHORITY OF THE COUNCIL
i) The Council shall possess a common seal under the name
―THE AUTHORITY OF HOCUSA COUNCIL” and
it shall bear the Date and signature of the Chairperson.
ii) The seal shall be used in accordance to this Constitution
and by the authorized officer(s) of this Association.
iii) Use of the seal by unauthorized party shall be unlawful
and punishable.
iv) The Council shall determine any necessary and
appropriate punishment to offenders of this Rule.
52. CUSTODY OF DOCUMENTATION AND
MATERIALS
a) The Secretary General shall keep in his or her custody at
the Office or under his or her control, all records, books
and other documents relating to HOCUSA including
copies of similar books or records of each Affiliate
association.
b) The Secretary General shall keep in his or her custody at
the Office or under his / her control, all materials and
properties relating to HOCUSA.
c) The accounting records and minutes of Meetings of
Members shall be open to inspection, free of charge, by
any Member, through their authorized representative, at
any reasonable time.
d) The Affiliate association’s records- financial records and
statements, activities reports, projects reports and register
and other records necessary and kept by the Secretary or
any other officer of the Affiliate association’s shall be
stored, kept and reserved by the SG in his/her office and
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shall be available for verifications and inspection by
bodies authorized under this Constitution.
e) Other bodies and persons, other than members of the
Association and authorized bodies may seek the
Council’s permission to view records of the Association
at a fee determined by the Council.
f) In keeping the records and documents for the Affiliate
association, the SG shall ensure that the records are
easily accessible and available at all times.
g) Record relating to the duties and activities of the
Association may be kept by relevant officers of the
Association in their custody and true copies of such
documents shall be kept by the SG as part of the
documents of the Association.
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CHAPTER X DISPUTES AND DISCIPLINE
53. DISPUTES
1. If any dispute arises out of the interpretation of this
Constitution or the By-Laws or any matter concerning
HOCUSA and such dispute:
a) Does not directly involve the Council, Member of
the Council, the Board or a Member of the Board;
or;
b) Is not a matter which the Council determines; or
c) Does not involve the termination of a Member’s
Membership under this Constitution-
2- The dispute must be referred in writing to an
Arbitrary Committee appointed by the Council to
hear and determine such disputes.
3- The dispute will be handled by the Arbitrary
Committee in accordance with the By-Laws.
4- The decision of the Arbitrary Committee shall be
final and binding.
2. If any dispute arises out of the interpretation of this
Constitution or the By-Laws or any matter concerning
HOCUSA and such dispute directly involves the
Council, Member of the Council, the Board or a Member
of the Board; then the dispute shall be resolved by the
following process:
a) By the parties acting in good faith to seek an
agreement, or
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b) Failing agreement in (a) above, by a parties
appointing an independent third person to conciliate
or mediate between them; or
c) Failing agreement at conciliation or mediation
referred to in (b) above, by arbitration before the
Board. The decision of the Board shall be final and
binding.
3. If any dispute arises between an affiliated Organization
and the Association, the party aggrieved shall explain its
position to the Council or the relevant organ of the
Association which shall act within the shortest time
possible to convene a meeting to help solve the matter.
4. If there shall be no solution to the matter at the Council
level, the matter shall be referred to the Advisory Board
which shall make final decisions on the subjects
presented.
5. Disputes involving Affiliate association shall be
determined by the Council, except if such disputes arise
between the Affiliate associations and the Council,
where, the Arbitrary Committee shall be formed.
54. DISCIPLINARY MATTERS AND PROCESSES
1- Without limiting the powers of the Disciplinary
Committee under provisions of this Constitution, an
allegation by an individual or organization that a Member
or one of its Delegates or authorized representatives in
respect of HOCUSA or its events, activities, programs,
projects, Council, Member of the Council, the Board or a
Member of the Board, Appointed Official or Member has:
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a) Breached, failed, refused or neglected to comply with a
provision of this Constitution, the By-Laws, any other
procedure and/or policy, resolution or determination of
a Meeting of Members, the Council, or under any
rule(s) agreed to be applied by the Association in the
management and coordination of its agenda; or
b) Acted in a manner which is unbecoming of a Member,
office bearer, Representative or Delegate, or Appointed
Official and/or is prejudicial to the Objects Functions
and interests of HOCUSA; or
c) Brought HOCUSA into disrepute;
i. The dispute may be referred by the Council at its
discretion in appropriate cases for investigation and
determination by the Disciplinary Committee and;
ii. Any such person (―Defendant‖) will be subject
to the jurisdiction, procedures, penalties and appeal
mechanisms of HOCUSA set out in the By-Laws.
iii. The Council shall have the responsibility to
constitute the Disciplinary Committee and to
appoint its members.
2- Cases that the Disciplinary Committee considers do not
warrant formal investigation and determination can be
dealt with through mediation, conciliation or other
suitable informal process as determined by the
Disciplinary Committee.
3- The Disciplinary Committee may commence
investigatory or disciplinary proceedings (―Proceedings‖)
against a Defendant at any time
4- The Council shall appoint a secretary from one of the
members of the Disciplinary Committee. An Office
Bearer may not sit on the Disciplinary Committee.
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5- Decisions on matters referred to the Disciplinary
Committee shall be made and determined by that
Committee in accordance with the By-Laws.
6- The Defendant, any other party to the proceedings, or the
Council may appeal a decision of the Disciplinary
Committee within 14 days of the decision by submitting
it to arbitration before the Board, and by giving written
notice of such appeal to the Disciplinary Committee, the
Council and the other party.
7- The decision of the arbitrator shall be final and binding.
8- The procedures outlined under this Rule may apply to
Affiliate associations formed by this Association.
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CHAPTER XI MISCELLANEOUS
55. PATRON AND VICE PATRONS
a-
i. There may be one Patron and a Vice Patrons (not
mandatory). Patron and Vice-Patron are entitled to
attend and speak at Meetings of Members but shall have
no right to vote.
ii. The Council may make recommendations to an AGM or
a SGM of persons it considers suitable and willing to
hold the offices of Patron and (if any) Vice-Patron, for
approval by simple majority of those present, in person
or by proxy, and entitled to vote.
iii. The Patron, the Matron and (if any) Vice-Patron shall
remain in office for a period of five years but may be
reappointed.
iv. Persons appointed and/or nominated as Patron and Vice
Patron shall;
1. Be Kenyan citizens as under the Kenyan
Constitution;
2. Be members of the Homabay County;
3. Persons of wide influence and with ability to
patronize and guide Associations;
4. Pro development and able to muscle economic
opportunities for the Association;
5. A person with exemplary leadership ability and
skills in the society;
6. Express unwavering interest and willingness to
perform the duties under this Constitution and the By-
Laws.
v. The Patron shall perform the duties outlined in this
Constitution and/or the By-Laws.
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b- The duties of the Patron shall be the following, but not
limiting roles and duties listed in the By-Laws:
1. Represent the Association in meetings where the
Council shall not attend ;
2. Organize the Association in appropriate manner to
achieve its objectives;
3. Champion the activities of the Association;
4. Be the overall leader of the Association;
5. Maintain the Association by means applicable;
6. Arrange, defend, stand for and negotiate
workable instruments for the Association with other
parties, institutions and agencies;
7. Spearhead all the activities of the Association;
8. May be an arbiter or a mediator for the Association.
c- The Vice Patron
i. Persons with similar qualifications to those of the
Patron may be nominated by the AGM as Vice Patron;
ii. There may be only one Vice Patron at every single
time;
iii. The Association shall formulate legislations giving
other roles to the Vice Patron.
d- Duties of the Vice Patron
The Vice Patron shall;
i. Be the principal assistance to the Patron and the
Matron;
ii. Perform the duties of the Patron in the event of their
absence;
iii. Perform any other duties as assigned by the AGM or as
under this Constitution and the By-Laws.
e- The Council may suspend provisions of this Rule after a
resolution of its members.
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56. THE MATRON
a)
1. HOCUSA shall have one position reserved for a
female with outstanding contributions to the society,
who shall be the Matron of the Association.
2. The Matron shall have qualifications as those of the
Patron.
b) Functions of The Matron
The Matron shall perform the following functions and
duties;
i) Be the representative of females and persons with
disabilities in the Association;
ii) Be the link of the Association to the outside
society;
iii) Represent the interests of the Association in
forum of leaders of the society;
iv) Be the Mum of the Association;
v) Perform any other duty as asked by the Board.
c) The Council may suspend the applications of this Rule
after a resolution passed by its members.
57. APPLICATION OF INCOME
1- The income and property of HOCUSA shall be applied
solely towards the promotion of the Object of HOCUSA
as set out in this Constitution.
2- No portion of the income or property of HOCUSA shall
be paid or transferred, directly or indirectly by way of
dividend, bonus or otherwise to any Member, delegate,
Officer or Office Bearer except if otherwise provided for
in this Constitution;
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3- Subject to Rule 47 (g) and 57(1), nothing in Rule 57(2)
shall prevent payment in good faith of, or to, any
Member, delegate, Officer or Office Bearer for:
a) Any out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the
Member, delegate, Officer or Office Bearer on
behalf of HOCUSA in accordance with the
procedures, processes and standards specified by the
Council.
b) Any services actually rendered to HOCUSA
whether as an employee or otherwise.
c) Goods supplied to HOCUSA in the ordinary and
usual course of operation.
d) Interest on money borrowed from any Member.
e) Rent for premises demised or let by any Member,
delegate, Officer or Office Bearer to HOCUSA.
f) Remuneration and benefits conferred to them by the
regulations of this Association.
-Provided that any such payment shall not exceed the amount
ordinarily payable between the parties and the person or
organization not being a Member, delegate, Officer or Office
Bearer of HOCUSA; or such payments shall not exceed the
amount meant for the remuneration of the officer involved.
4- The Board shall determine any appropriate means to
express gratitude to members, officers, employees and
office bearers of the Association for services done to the
Association.
5- The Board shall also set and specify, the amount to be
paid, as remuneration or benefit to all office bearers and
other leaders of the Association including that of all the
leaders of the Affiliate associations.
6- No payments shall be made out of the bank account or by
cash without a resolution of the Council authorizing such
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payment and all cheques or receipts on such bank
account shall be signed by the Chairperson, the Secretary
General and the Finance Manager.
7- The Council shall have power to suspend any office
bearer or officer of the Association who it has reasonable
cause to believe is not properly accounting for any of the
funds or property of the Association and shall have
power to appoint another person in his place. Such
suspension shall be reported to a general meeting to be
convened on a date not later than two months from the
date of such suspension and the general meeting shall
have full power to decide what further action should be
taken in the matter.
8- Any Affiliate association formed under this Constitution
shall have the discretion to set rules on remuneration of
officers and any other relevant payments or scheme of
awards to its members and officers.
58. ALTERATIONS TO THIS CONSTITUTION
1- This Constitution or the name of the Association may
only be amended, added to or repealed except by Special
Resolution in an AGM/SGM supported by two-third of
all the registered members of the Association.
2- Notwithstanding the provisions of any Rules in this
Constitution, a notice of an intention to alter this
Constitution, and full details of the proposed alterations,
must be given by the Member(s) proposing the change or
the Council to the Secretary General no fewer than (30)
days prior to the Meeting of Members which is to
consider them.
3- Upon receipt of such notice, the Secretary General shall
consult the Council and obtain such legal and other
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advice as considered necessary and helpful for Members’
consideration of the proposed alterations and shall call
for a Special General meeting within 14 days after
receipt of the notice.
4- The quorum at the meeting shall be two-third majority of
members present. If no quorum is obtained, the proposal
to dissolve the society shall be submitted to a further
general meeting which shall be held during the dates set
for the AGM of that year. Notice of this meeting shall be
given to all members of the society at least 14 days
before the date of the meeting. The quorum for this
second meeting shall be the number of members present.
5- A resolution by the members of the Association under
this Rule shall not, however, be implemented without the
prior consent in writing of the Registrar, obtained upon
application to him made in writing and signed by the
Chairperson, the Secretary General and the Public
Relations Officer.
6- No Affiliate association’s shall have the authority to
cause an amendment to its rules once they are
established, except by a resolution passed by the Council,
and the procedure shall be similar to the provisions of
this Rule.
59. BY-LAWS
1. The Association shall have an absolute right to make,
create and enforce By-Laws.
2. The Committee on Administration may make, amend and
repeal subject to approval by the AGM, such By-Laws as
it considers necessary or desirable. Such By-Laws must
be consistent with this Constitution and with the
resolutions of Meetings of Members.
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3. All By-Laws shall be binding on HOCUSA, the
Members, and delegates, Officers, Office Bearer and
Appointed Officials.
4. All By-Laws and any amendments to them shall be
advised to all Members in writing, as soon as reasonably
practicable after their approval by the Council.
5. No process under this Rule shall interfere with the duties
of committees created under this Constitution.
6. All By-laws which were in force prior to the
commencement of this Constitution shall remain in force
upon commencement of this Constitution until amended
or repealed by the Council or AGM.
7. The By-Laws shall not contravene this Constitution
whatsoever and shall be in harmony with all the
provisions of this Constitution.
8. Any contradictory By-Law to this Constitution shall be
invalid to that extent.
9. The Constitutions of the Affiliate associations formed
under the Association shall be part of the By-Laws of the
Association.
10. The PRO shall lodge with the Registrar an intention
of the Association or its Affiliate association’s to add or
repeal By-Laws according to this Constitution.
60. WINDING UP
1. A resolution to dissolve this Association shall require a
vote of all members registered in the Association and
shall only be conducted during an AGM.
2. An appeal for dissolution may be lodged by at least two-
thirds of all registered members from every Affiliate
association.
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3. HOCUSA may voluntarily wind itself up if no fewer
than seventy five per cent of all registered members, and
entitled to vote at an AGM pass the resolution.
4. If upon winding up or dissolution of HOCUSA there
remains after satisfaction of all its debts and liabilities
any assets or property, these shall not be paid to or
distributed amongst the Members of HOCUSA but may
be given or transferred to an orphanage or used in a
manner to help the society or to support any existing
project of HOCUSA.
5. No dissolution shall be effected without prior permission
in writing of the Registrar, obtained upon application to
him made in writing and signed by the Chairperson, the
Secretary General and the Finance Manager.
6. When the dissolution of the Association has been
approved by the Registrar, no further action shall be
taken by the Council or any office bearer of the
Association in connection with the aims of the
Association other than to get in and liquidate for cash all
the assets of the Association. Subject to the payment of
all the debts of the Association, the balance thereof shall
be distributed in such other manner as may be resolved
by the meeting at which the resolution for dissolution is
passed, and/ or according to provisions of this
Constitution.
7. The beneficiary envisaged in Rule 60(4) must prohibit
the distribution of its or their income and property among
its or their members to an extent at least as great as is
imposed on HOCUSA by this Constitution, must not be
carried on for profit, and must be similarly exempt from
income tax.
8. The beneficiaries referred to in Rule 60(4) are to be
determined by the Members of HOCUSA at or before
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the time of dissolution. If the Members cannot decide,
such determination shall be made by such body in the
country as may have or acquire jurisdiction in the matter.
61. INDEMNITY
HOCUSA shall indemnify its Office Bearers, Appointed
Officials and employees against all damages and costs
(including legal costs) for which any such, Office Bearers,
Appointed Official or employee may be, or become, liable to
any third party as a result of any act or omission, (except
wilful misconduct):
a) In the case of Office Bearers or Appointed Official or
employee, performed or made whilst acting on behalf of
and with the authority, express or implied, of the
Council, and
b) In the case of an employee, performed or made in the
course of, and within the scope of their employment by
HOCUSA.
62. COLOURS
i. The colours of HOCUSA for use in its logo(s), and
promotional material shall be as described in this
Constitution.
ii. Members may use these colours in logos and promotional
material of their own. Members must obtain express
permission in advance from the Secretary General to use
them in the same design, or a substantially similar design,
to the design used by HOCUSA.
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63. SCHEDULE ONE DEFINITION
“HOCUSA” means ―HOMABAY COUNTY STUDENTS
ASSOCIATION”- as under Rule 1
“Act” and “the Act” means the Societies Act 1968.
“Annual Report” means the report described under Rule 49.
“Annual General Meeting” and “AGM” mean the Meeting
of Members held annually as described in Chapter VIII or a
meeting held at the end of every year by an affiliate
association. “Appointed Official” means individuals who are
appointed by the Council to positions of responsibility within
HOCUSA. ―Authorised Representative” means a person
who is authorised for the time being in writing by the
Management of HOCUSA to act on its behalf in respect of
any action or matter provided for in this Constitution
including By-Laws. Unless specified the “Board” means the
“The Advisory Board” as defined in Rule 23. “The
Committee, EC” means the Affiliate association’s Executive
Committee “By-Laws‖ means the By-laws made under Rule
59. The “COUNCIL” means the ―HOCUSA GOVERNING
COUNCIL” as under Rule 11. ―Affiliate associations” or
“Affiliate association” means an Affiliate association or
Affiliate associations of HOCUSA formed by members of the
Association and may be referred to as Branches. “Delegate”
means a person appointed by a Member or the Council to be
its representative at a meeting. “Intellectual Property”
means all rights and/or goodwill in copyright, business names,
names, trademarks (or signs), logos, designs, patents or
service marks relating to HOCUSA or any event, or any
activity, project or task administered by HOCUSA. “Life
Members” means those individuals described in Rule 5.
“Meeting of Members” means an Annual General Meeting
(AGM) or a Special General Meeting (SGM) of Members
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under Rule 43. “Member” means a Member of HOCUSA as
specified in Rule 5. “Membership Fee” means any fee
payable by the Members to HOCUSA as provided for in Rule
7. “Object” means the Object of HOCUSA described under
Rule 4 of this Constitution. “Office” means the principal
place where the activities of HOCUSA shall be administered
as described in Rule 5. “Officer” means an individual holding
one of the positions described in this Constitution. ―Office
Bearer” refers to any person elected, nominated or appointed
to hold office. “Chairperson” and “Secretary General
(SG)” means the individual elected under Rule 11.
“Register” means the register of Members and Officers of
HOCUSA specified in Rule 9. “Constitution” mean this
Constitution. “Special General Meeting” or “SGM” means a
Meeting of members called under Rule 43 other than the
Annual General Meeting. “Special Resolution” means a
resolution passed at a Meeting of Members (for which proper
notice is given under this Constitution) by not less than a
three-quarters majority vote of those entitled to vote at such
meeting. “Student” means a person in an institution of
learning to which membership is reserved; alumni or associate
of any institution where membership is opened. “Voting
Power/ right” means the right of a member to participate in
elections and determinations of objectives advanced by
HOCUSA. “Association” means this Association, its
members and officers collectively, the Affiliate associations
HOCUSA and their officers collectively. ―Committees” are
bodies formed under this Constitution other than Office
Bearers. ―Common Stamp” refers to the stamp of authority
owned by the Association for use as under Rule 50.
“Pioneers” means the Chief Original Founding persons of the
Association. “Regional balance” means fair considerations to
all the Institutions within Homabay County. “Youths” means
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a person between the age of eighteen years and thirty-five
years. “Patron, “Vice Patron” and “Matron” means an
individual elected to that position under Rule 55 and 56.
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64. SCHEDULE TWO RESPONSIBILITIES OF
OFFICIALS AND OFFICERS
The responsibilities of Office Bearers referred to in this
Constitution include:
1. A duty to act in best interests of HOCUSA
An Office Bearers must carry out his or her functions:
a) In good faith in the best interests of the HOCUSA as a
whole, and
b) For a proper purpose.
2. A duty to exercise care and diligence
An Office Bearers must act honestly and exercise a reasonable
degree of care and diligence in carrying out his or her
functions.
3. A duty not to improperly use position
An Office Bearers must not make improper use of his or her
position: (a) to gain, directly or indirectly, an advantage for
the member or another person, or (b) to cause detriment to the
HOCUSA.
4. A duty not to improperly use information
An Office Bearers must not make improper use of information
acquired because of his or her position:
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(a) To gain, directly or indirectly, an advantage for the
member or another person, or
(b) To cause detriment to the HOCUSA.
5. A duty to disclose material interests
(a) If an Office Bearer:
(i) Has a material interest in a matter being considered or
about to be consider at a meeting of the where s/he is a
member, and
(ii) The interest appears to raise a conflict with the proper
performance of the his or her duties in relation to the
consideration of the matter,
The Office Bearer must, as soon as possible after the relevant
facts have come to the Office Bearer’s knowledge, disclose
the nature of the interest at a meeting of the Council or
committee.
(b) After an Office Bearer has disclosed the nature of an
interest in any matter, the Office Bearer must not unless the
Council otherwise determines:
(i) Be present during any deliberation of the Council or
committee with respect to the matter, or
(ii) Take Chapter in any decision of the Council or committee
with respect to the matter.
(c) For the purpose of the making of a determination by the
Council or Committee under (ii) above, an Office Bearer, who
has a material interest in a matter to which the disclosure
relates must not:
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(i) be present during any deliberation of the Council or
committee for the purpose of making the determination,
or
(ii) Take part in the making of the Council or Committee
of the determination.
(f) A contravention of this Rule does not invalidate any
decision of the Council or Committee.
(g) This Rule does not prevent a person from taking part in the
consideration or discussion by the Council or committee of
any question relating to the person’s removal from office
under Rule 38.
(h) This Rule applies to a member of a committee and the
committee in the same way as it applies to an Office Bearer,
Council Members, Board Members, the Council and the
Board.
(i) For the purposes of this Rule, an office Bearer has a
material interest in a matter if a determination of the
Committee or Council in which he sits as a member, in the
matter may result in a detriment being suffered by or a benefit
accruing to the Office Bearer or an associate of the member.
(j) In this Rule:
―Associate of an Office Bearer‖ means any of the following:
(i) the spouse, de facto partner, parent, child, brother or sister,
business partner or friend of the Office Bearer enlisted as the
next of kin and, or is entitled to the benefits accrued by the
Office Bearer, in a similar category by the office Bearer;
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(ii) The spouse, de facto partner, parent, child, brother or
sister, business partner or friend of a person referred to in
paragraph (i) if that relationship is known to the Office
Bearer;
(iii) Any other person who is known to the Office Bearer for
reasons other than that person’s connection with HOCUSA or
that person’s public reputation.
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65. THE COLOURS, LOGO AND FEATURES OF
HOCUSA
HOCUSA shall develop its Colours, Logo and other features
as may be necessary for the promotion of its objectives and
realization of its authority, authenticity and for formal
reasons.
The name of the Association shall appear in a blue colour
with the acronym in green colour.
The slogan of the Association shall always appear below the
name. It will be in brown.
The Association’s contacts including physical addresses may
be included in the logo in a manner appropriate.
This logo could be used by the affiliate associations with
relevant modifications.
HOMA BAY COUNTY STUDENTS ASSOCIATION
(HOCUSA) TOGETHER WE STAND TOGETHER WE GROW
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66. SCHEDULE THREE- FIRST ELECTION
1. The First Elections of the Council shall be conducted by
members at the First meeting of this Association.
2. Founder members reserve the right to be elected to the
positions created under this Constitution provided they are
well meaning and meet the specifications required under this
Constitution.
3. While Constituting the First Council-
i. Regional balance shall be observed.
ii. Certain provisions specified for the constitution of the
Council under this Constitution may be suspended
accordingly.
iii. Persons elected as Chairperson to an Affiliate association
shall be a member of the Council, but shall resign from
the former position for fresh elections of new office
holder of the Affiliate Executive Office.
iv. Persons elected to the Secretariat shall not be subjected
to a fresh election at the First AGM of the Association,
unless such a person –
a) Resigns from office;
b) Asks to be exempted from the Secretariat;
c) Dies before the date of the AGM;
d) Is unable to perform his/her duties effectively due to
any reason;
e) Is found unfit to hold any position in the
Association according to the provisions of this
Constitution;
f) Is found to be working against the interests of the
Association or the Affiliate associations formed
under the Association;
g) Has demonstrated unwillingness to serve in the
Association as required;
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h) Is not willing to serve at the position he/she was
elected in during the First Election.
i) Has been requested by the members of an Affiliate
association, in which he/she is a member, and has
accepted, to be in its Executive Committee.
v. Under the above considerations, new elections shall be
conducted to the respective ―vacant‖ position
accordingly.
vi. For purposes of the First Elections, all members eligible
and contesting for any position of HOCUSA shall pay a
constant nomination fee of Kshs. 100, except for the
positions of the Chairperson, the Deputy Chairperson,
the Secretary General the Deputy Secretary General and
the Treasurer, who shall pay a nomination fee of Kshs.
200.
vii. Despite any provision in this Constitution, a member
shall be eligible for election after satisfying other
requirements of elections under this Constitution.
viii. It shall be presumed that until during the First AGM all
Affiliate associations have constituted their Executive
Committees, or have formally endorsed their Executive
Committees, and the respective Committees as required
under their Constitutions, and consequently-
i. The respective members of the affiliates shall not
have to convene for the purpose of election of the
same officials, or
ii. The respective members shall convene to formally
endorse and proclaim the existing Executive
Committee as truly elected for the given Affiliate
associations, or
iii. The respective members shall elect, appoint or
nominate or formally endorse serving members of
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the respective committees into the Committees as
provided;
iv. The Affiliate associations shall perform any other
duty as provided for and deemed to enhance any
activity of the AGM-including nominating members
to Committees of the Association.
4. Following the Constitution of the Executive Bodies and
Committees as required, the Committees of the Association
shall be formed accordingly.
5. Officers elected to the Council during the First Election
shall be deemed Officials of the Association upon
confirmation by members attending the First AGM; and shall
exercise all the authority of the Council as provided under this
Constitution.
6. A provision under this Schedule may be suspended if
agreed so by the members at the first meeting.
7. Any suspension to any Rule under this schedule shall only
be applicable for the period of the First Election and shall be
interpreted for the benefit of that purpose it seeks to serve.
8. Officials elected by any affiliate association before this
Constitution came to force shall be considered and deemed as
the officials of that affiliate association and shall perform any
responsibility conferred to them under this Constitution.
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67. SCHEDULE FOUR-
1. Until the Affiliate association’s Executives have been elected
and respective committees formed as under this Constitution-
(a) The functions of the Affiliate association’s Executive and
those of the Council shall be performed by the Secretariat;
and
(b) Any function or role that is required to be performed by all
the Committees of the Association shall be performed or
exercised by the Secretariat.
2. The time specification for the full implementation of this
Constitution shall be a maximum of three years.
3. All the institutions under this Association shall always elect a
member from amongst its members to be a representative of that
institution at the Welfare Committee.
4. Members elected as Institution representatives shall perform all
the roles in representation of all the interests of the institution
he/she represents.
5. The Board may guide the establishment of offices to look into
special interests such as-
a) The Girl Child Education;
b) Gender Based Interests;
c) Academics;
d) Health related issues;
e) Economic empowerment and involvement of the Association,
among others as it shall deem necessary and profitable to
HOCUSA.
6. The Board shall nominate persons to serve in the Committee
responsible for the formation and establishment of HOCUSA
SACCO.
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68. DECLARATION
This Constitution was promulgated on the ……..of
……..2014 by the members of HOCUSA.
We the undersigned confirm that the Constitution was
proclaimed unanimously by members of this Association on
the above day and date and that members agreed to abide by
all the rules and regulations set herein.
Name Position
Signature
Chairperson
Secretary General
Finance Manager
Witnessed by the Patron
Date
Name: Mr. Esborn Omiti Signature