The Permanent Constitution of the State of Qatar 0 / 2004

 

Table of Content

Part 1 (1-17)

The State and the Basis of its Rule (1-17)

Part 2 (18-33)

Guiding Principles of the Society (18-33)

Part 3 (34-58)

Public Rights and Duties (34-58)

Part 4 (59-140)

Organization of Powers (59-140)

Chapter I: General Provisions (59-63)

Chapter II: The Emir (64-75)

Chapter III: The Legislative Authority (76-116)

Chapter IV: The Executive Authority (117-128)

Chapter V: The Judicial Authority (129-140)

Part 5 (141-150)

Concluding Provisions (141-150)



We, Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar,

 

Fulfilling our goals to lay down the basis of democratic rule by ratifying a permanent constitution that establishes the fundamental foundations of community, and accomplishes the people’s participation in decision-making and guarantees their rights and freedoms;

 

 Recognizing the importance of our Arab and Islamic affiliation, of which we are so proud,  

 

Noting with satisfaction the results of the Referendum on the Permanent Constitution of the State of Qatar, on 29th April 2003, and its approval by an overwhelming majority of citizens,

 

Taking into account Article 141 of the Permanent Constitution,

 

Have decreed the following Constitution which shall be published in the Official Gazette one year after it is issued, during which time constitutional institutions shall be completed, and necessary measures thereto be undertaken by Law.


Part 1

The State and the Basis of its Rule

Article 1

 Qatar is an independent sovereign Arab State. Its religion is Islam and the Shari’a Law shall be the principal source of its legislation. Its political system is democratic. The Arabic Language shall be its official language. The people of Qatar are a part of the Arab nation.


 

Article 2

 The capital of the State is Doha City; the capital may be transferred to any other location by law. The State shall exercise sovereignty on its own territory, and may neither relinquish this sovereignty nor cede any part of its territory.


 

Article 3

 The Law shall specify the flag, emblem, decorations and badges of the State, and the National Anthem.


 

Article 4

 The Law shall determine the financial and banking systems of the State and specify its official currency.


 

Article 5

 The State shall preserve its independence, sovereignty, territorial safety and integrity, security and stability, and shall defend itself against aggression.


 

Article 6

 The State shall respect international charters and conventions and shall strive to implement all international agreements, charters and conventions to which it is party.


 

Article 7

 The foreign policy of the State is based on the principles of strengthening international peace and security by means of encouraging peaceful resolution of international disputes, supporting the right of peoples to self-determination, not interfering in the domestic affairs of other states, and cooperating with all peace-loving nations.


 

Article 8

 The rule of the State is hereditary in the family of Al-Thani and in the line of the male descendants of Hamad Bin Khalifa Bin Hamad Bin Abdullah Bin Jassim.

The rule shall be inherited by the son appointed as Crown Prince by the Emir. In the event that there is no such heir, the prerogatives of rule shall pass to the member of the family named by the Emir as Crown Prince, and his male descendants shall inherit such rule.

The provisions regarding the rule of the State and the accession shall be determined by legislation that shall be issued within a year from the date that this Constitution shall come into force. The present Law shall have the power of the Constitution.


 

Article 9

 

The Emir shall, by an Emiri Order, appoint a Crown Prince after consultation with members of the Ruling Family and wise people (Ahal Alhal wal agd) in the State. The Crown Prince must be a Muslim born to a Qatari Muslim mother.


 

Article 10

 The Crown Prince, on his appointment, shall take the following oath: –

“I, …, do solemnly swear by Almighty Allah to respect the Shari’a Law, the Constitution and the Laws thereof, maintain the independence of the State and safeguard its territorial integrity, defend the freedom and interests of its people, and be loyal to the State and the Emir”.


 

Article 11

 The Crown Prince shall assume the powers and discharge the functions of the Emir on his behalf during the Emir’s absence from the country, or in the event of temporary unavoidable circumstances.


 

Article 12

 The Emir may, by an Emiri Order, delegate to the Crown Prince the exercise of some of his powers and the discharge of such aspects of his functions as are deemed necessary. In this event, the Crown Prince shall preside over the sessions of the Council of Ministers whenever he is in attendance.

 


 

Article 13

 Subject to the provisions of the two preceding Articles, and when it is not possible to delegate powers to the Crown Prince, the Emir may, by an Emiri Order, designate a deputy from the Ruling Family to discharge such other of his powers and functions as the Emir so determines. Where the person who has been so designated holds a post or performs a function in any institution, the same person shall cease to discharge the duties of that post or function during his deputation for the Emir. The Deputy Emir shall, as soon as he is so designated, take before the Emir the same oath as is taken by the Crown Prince.


 

Article 14

 There shall be established by Emiri Resolution a council named the Council of the Ruling Family (CRF). The Emir shall appoint the members of the CRF from among the members of the Ruling Family.


 

Article 15

 The CRF shall appoint the successor who should fill the vacancy of the position of Emir in the event of his demise or should he become totally incapacitated and unable to discharge his duties. Following an in camera joint session, the Council of Ministers and the Shura Council shall announce the vacancy and appoint the Crown Prince the Emir of the State.

 


 

Article 16

 Where the Crown Prince, at the time he is named Emir of the State, is younger than 18 years of age according to the Gregorian calendar, the responsibility of government shall be conferred upon a Regency Council to be appointed by the CRF.

The Regency Council shall be composed of a chairman and not fewer than three nor more than five members. The chairman and the majority of members shall be from the Ruling Family.

 


 

Article 17

 The financial emoluments of the Emir, as well as funds allocated for gifts and assistance shall be determined by a resolution issued annually by the Emir.

 


 

Part 2

Guiding Principles of the Society

Article 18

 Justice, benevolence, freedom, equality and high moral standards are core values of the Qatari society.


 

Article 19

 The State shall safeguard the foundations of the society and ensure security, stability and equal opportunities for all citizens.


 

Article 20

 The State shall strive to reinforce the spirit of national unity, solidarity, and fraternity among all citizens.


 

Article 21

 The family is the basis of society. A Qatari family is founded on religion, ethics and patriotism. The Law shall regulate as necessary to protect the family, support its structure, strengthen its ties and protect mothers, children and the elderly.


 

Article 22

 The State shall provide care for the young and protect them from corruption, exploitation, and the evils of physical, mental and spiritual neglect. The State shall also create circumstances conducive to the development of their abilities in all fields based on a sound education.


 

Article 23

 The State shall foster public health, provide the means of prevention of disease and epidemics, and promote their cure in accordance with the Law.


 

Article 24

 The State shall foster, preserve and help disseminate the sciences, arts and national cultural heritage, and shall encourage scientific research.


 

Article 25

 Education is one of the basic pillars of social progress. The State shall ensure, foster and promote education.


 

Article 26

 Ownership, capital and employment constitute the foundation of the social structure of the State; the same are individual rights with a social function and they shall be regulated by the Law.


 

Article 27

 Private property is inviolable; no citizen shall be deprived of his/her property except where deemed necessary in the public interest and in the cases prescribed by the Law and in the manner stated therein, provided that the person concerned is fairly compensated.


 

Article 28

 The State shall guarantee freedom of economic enterprise on the basis of social justice and balanced cooperation between private and public activity in order to achieve socio-economic development, increase production, ensure public welfare, raise the standard of living and provide job opportunities in accordance with the provisions of the Law.


 

Article 29

 Natural wealth and its resources are the property of the State, which shall preserve and exploit them in the best way possible in accordance with the provisions of the Law.


 

Article 30

 The employee–employer relationship shall be based on the ideals of social justice and shall be regulated by the Law.


 

Article 31

 The State shall encourage investment and shall provide the necessary regulatory framework to create a stable economic environment.

 


 

Article 32

 The Law shall regulate State loans.


 

Article 33

 The State shall conserve the environment and the natural balance thereof in order to achieve comprehensive and sustainable development for all generations.


 

Part 3

Public Rights and Duties

Article 34

 Citizens shall be equal in terms of public rights and duties.


 

Article 35

 All persons are equal before the Law and there shall be no discrimination whatsoever on grounds of gender, race, language or religion.


 

Article 36

 Personal freedom shall be guaranteed and no person may be arrested, detained or searched, neither may his freedom of residence and mobility be restricted, save under the provisions of the Law. No person may be subjected to torture or any degrading treatment, and torture shall be deemed a crime punishable by Law.


 

Article 37

 The sanctity of  the individual’s privacy shall be inviolable, and therefore interference in  a person’s privacy, family affairs, home or correspondence, or any other act of interference that may demean or defame a person, shall not be allowed, save as permitted by the provisions stipulated in the Law.


 

Article 38

 No citizen shall be exiled from or denied re-entry to the country.


 

Article 39

 An accused person is presumed innocent until convicted before a court of law, wherein the necessary guarantees of the right of self-defence are secured.


 

Article 40

 No crime and no punishment shall apply, save as prescribed by the Law, and the criminal laws shall have no retrospective effect (Nullum crimen, nulla poena sine praevia lege poenali). Punishment is personal to the offender such that sentences are non-transferrable and inalienable.

 

No provisions of the criminal Code shall have retrospective effect. However, it may be stipulated otherwise by a majority of two-thirds of the Shura Council in the case of non-criminal provisions.


 

Article 41

 Qatari nationality and the rules governing it shall be prescribed by law, and the same shall have a similar power to that of the Constitution.


 

Article 42

 The State shall ensure the right of citizens to vote and to be elected in accordance with the Law.


 

Article 43

 The taxation system shall be founded on the principles of social justice and taxes may not henceforth be levied save as prescribed by law.


 

Article 44

 The right of citizens to assemble in public is guaranteed in accordance with the provisions of the Law.


 

Article 45

 The right of citizens to establish associations is guaranteed under the conditions and circumstances set out in the Law.


 

Article 46

 Individuals have the right to communicate with public authorities.


 

Article 47

 Freedom of expression of opinion and scientific research is guaranteed under the conditions and circumstances set forth in the Law.


 

Article 48

 Freedom of the press and media, shall be guaranteed in accordance with the Law.


 

Article 49

 All citizens have the right to education, and the State shall endeavour to make general education compulsory and free of charge in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations of the State.


 

Article 50

 Freedom to practice religious rites shall be guaranteed to all persons in accordance with the Law and the requirements of the maintenance of public order and morality.


 

Article 51

 The right of inheritance shall be maintained and governed by Shari’a Law.


 

Article 52

 Every person who is a legal resident of the State of Qatar shall enjoy the protection of his person and property in accordance with the provisions of the Law.


 

Article 53

 Defending the country is the duty of every citizen.


 

Article 54

 A public post is a national service. Those persons who perform public roles/duties shall at all times act in the public interest.


 

Article 55

 Public funds are inviolable and their protection shall be the duty of everyone in accordance with the Law.


 

Article 56

 

Public confiscation of property is prohibited. Private property confiscation is only by the courts and in cases specified by the Law.


 

Article 57

 Respect for the Constitution, compliance with the laws issued by the Public Authorities, abiding by the requirements of public order and public decorum, and observing national traditions and deep-rooted customs are duties of all who reside in the State of Qatar or enter its territory.

 


 

Article 58

 The extradition of political refugees is prohibited, and the Law shall determine the conditions for the granting of political asylum.


 

Part 4

Organization of Powers

Chapter I: General Provisions

Article 59

 The people are the source of power, and they shall exercise the same in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.


 

Article 60

 The system of government is based on the separation of powers and their collaboration in the manner specified in this Constitution.

 


 

Article 61

 Legislative authority shall be vested in the Shura Council as prescribed in this Constitution.


 

Article 62

 Executive authority shall be vested in the Emir, and he shall be assisted by the Council of Ministers as specified in this Constitution.


 

Article 63

  Judicial Authority shall be vested in the courts of law as prescribed in this Constitution; and judgments of the court shall be pronounced in the name of the Emir.


 

Chapter II: The Emir

Article 64

 The Emir is the head of state. His person shall be inviolable and he must be respected by all.


 

Article 65

 The Emir is the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces. He shall supervise the same with the assistance of the Defence Council under his direct authority. The said Council shall be constituted by an Emiri Resolution, which will also determine the functions thereof.


 

Article 66

 The Emir shall represent the State internally and externally, and in all international relations.


 

Article 67

 The Emir shall discharge the following functions:-

1.   Drawing up the general policy of the State with the assistance of the Council of Ministers.

2.         Ratification and promulgation of laws; no law may be issued unless ratified by the Emir.

 

3.         Summoning the Council of Ministers to convene at any time deemed necessary in the public interest; the Emir shall preside over the meetings of the Council of Ministers, which he attends.

4.         Appointment of civil servants and military personnel and termination of their service in accordance with the Law.

5.         Accreditation of diplomatic and consular missions.

6.           Granting pardons or commuting penalties in accordance with the Law.

7.         Conferring civilian and military orders and badges of honour in accordance with the Law.

8.         Establishment and regulation of ministries and other government bodies and setting their functions.

9.         Establishment and regulation of such consultative bodies as are required to assist him in conducting State affairs.

10.              Any other functions vested in him by this Constitution or the Law.


 

Article 68

 The Emir shall conclude treaties and agreements by decree and refer them to the Shura Council, accompanied by appropriate explanatory memos. The treaty or agreement shall have the power of law after ratification and publication in the Official Gazette. However, reconciliation treaties and those that pertain to the territory of the State, relate to the right of sovereignty or to the public or private rights of the citizen, or involve an amendment to the laws of the State, shall come into force when the same are issued as a law.

All treaty terms shall be expressed on their face and no terms shall be implied.


 

Article 69

 The Emir may issue a decree declaring martial law in the country in exceptional cases specified by the Law, and in such cases the Emir may take all urgent requisite measures to counter any threat that undermines the safety of the State, the integrity of its territories or the security of its people and interests, or that prevents the organs of the State from performing their duties. However, the decree must specify the nature of such exceptional cases where martial law can be declared and specify measures which should be taken to return to the Rule of Law. The Shura Council shall be notified of this decree within the fifteen days following its issue, and in the event that the Council is not in session for any reason whatsoever, the Council shall be notified of the decree at its first meeting. Martial law shall be declared for a limited period and the same shall not be extended unless approved by the Shura Council.


 

Article 70

 

In cases of extreme urgency, or force majeure that require measures of utmost urgency by issuing special decree-laws, and in such cases when the Shura Council is not in session, the Emir may issue pertinent decrees that have the power of law. Such decree-laws shall be submitted to the Shura Council at its first meeting, and the Council may, within a maximum of forty days from the date of submission and with a two-thirds majority of its members, reject any of these decree-laws, or request amendment thereof to be effected within a specified period of time. Such decree-laws shall cease to have the power of law from the date of their rejection by the Council or when the period for effecting the amendments has expired.


 

Article 71

 Defensive war shall be declared by an Emiri Decree and aggressive war is prohibited.


 

Article 72

 The Emir shall appoint the Prime Minister, accept his resignation and remove the Prime Minister from office by an Emiri Order, and the resignation of the Prime Minister or his removal from office shall include all other ministers. In the event of acceptance of resignation or removal from office, the outgoing Council shall continue to conduct urgent business on a temporary emergency basis until such time as a new Council is appointed.


 

Article 73

 The Emir shall appoint ministers by an Emiri Order on nomination by the Prime Minister, and he shall accept resignations of ministers and relieve them from office in the same way. Where the resignation of a minister has been accepted, the minister may be entrusted to continue the conduct of urgent business in his role as former minister until his successor is appointed.


 

Article 74

 The Emir shall, in a special session convened by the Shura Council prior to the discharge of his functions, take the following solemn oath: “I, …, do solemnly swear by Almighty Allah to respect Shari’a Law, the Constitution and the Law, protect the independence of the State, safeguard its territorial integrity, and defend the freedom and interests of its people”.


 

Article 75

 The Emir shall seek public opinion on important issues pertaining to the interests of the State in a referendum. The question to be decided by such a referendum shall be deemed to be accepted if approved by the majority of voters, and the result of the referendum shall be binding and effective from the date of its announcement. The results shall be published in the Official Gazette.


 

Chapter III: The Legislative Authority

Article 76

 The Shura Council shall assume legislative authority, approve the general policy of the government and the budget, and shall exercise control over the executive authority as specified in this Constitution.


 

Article 77

 The Shura Council shall consist of forty-five members, thirty of whom shall be elected by direct, general secret ballot, and the Emir shall appoint the remaining fifteen members from amongst the ministers or any other persons.

The term of office of the appointed members of the Shura Council shall expire when these members resign their seats or are relieved of their posts.


 

Article 78

 The election system shall be determined by legislation in which the conditions and procedures of nomination and election are specified.


 

Article 79

 The electoral constituencies into which the State is divided shall be determined by a decree.


 

Article 80

 The members of the Advisory Council (Shura) must fulfill the following conditions:

 

The members of the Advisory Council (Shura) must fulfill the following conditions:

1.          be Qatari nationals;

2.         be not less than thirty calendar years of age at the close nominations;

3.          be fluent in the reading and writing of Arabic;

4.         must not have been convicted by a competent court of law for an offence involving immoral behaviour or dishonesty, unless rehabilitated in accordance with the Law; and

5.         be eligible to vote as determined by electoral law.


 

Article 81

 The term of office of the Shura Council shall be four calendar years commencing from the date of the first meeting, and the election of a new Council shall be conducted during the last ninety days of the aforementioned term. Any member whose term of office expires may be re-elected, and where the election is not held at the expiry of the Council’s term of office or is delayed for any reason whatsoever, the term of office shall continue until a new Council is elected. The legislative term shall not be extended save by necessity and by decree provided that the said extension shall not exceed the period of one legislative term.

 


 

Article 82

 The competent Judicial Authority to decide on the validity of members’ election to the Shura Council shall be determined by the Law.


 

Article 83

 Where for any reason the seat of one of the elected members of the Shura Council falls vacant at least six months before expiry of the Council’s term of office, a successor shall be elected within two months from the date of notification of such vacancy. Where, on the other hand, the seat of an appointed member falls vacant, a new member shall be appointed to fill the vacancy. In both cases, the new member shall complete the term of his predecessor.


 

Article 84

 The annual term of session of the Council shall be at least eight months, and the Council may not adjourn the session until the budget of the State is approved.


 

Article 85

 The Shura Council shall commence its annual ordinary session upon convocation by the Emir in the month of October every year.


 

Article 86

 Notwithstanding the preceding two Articles, the Emir shall summon the Council within one month of the conclusion of a general election for its first meeting following the election.

Where the convening of the Council is delayed during this term from the date prescribed by the preceding Article, the duration of the term of the Council shall be reduced by the length of time of that delay.


 

Article 87

 The Emir or his nominated representative shall open the annual term of the session of the Shura Council and give a comprehensive speech in which he addresses the affairs of the State.


 

Article 88

 In case of necessity, the Emir, by a decree or at the request of a majority of the members of the Council, shall call an extraordinary meeting of the Shura Council. In the case of an extraordinary session, the Council shall not look into any matters other than those for which it has been convened.


 

Article 89

 Summoning and adjourning ordinary and extraordinary sessions of the Council shall be by decree.


 

Article 90

 The Emir may, by a decree, postpone a meeting of the Shura Council for a period  not exceeding one month, but the postponement of such meeting  shall not be repeated during any one term, save with the approval of the Council and for a single period of one month, and such a period shall not be deemed part of the term of the session.


 

Article 91

 The Council shall hold its meetings at its official seat in Doha City. However, the Emir may convene the Council in any other place.


 

Article 92

 In an open session and prior to the discharge of their duties with the Shura Council, the members shall take the following solemn oath:- “I, …, do solemnly swear by the Almighty Allah to be loyal to the country and to the Emir, respect Shari’a Law, the Constitution and the Law, safeguard the interests of the people and perform my duties with honesty and integrity”.


 

Article 93

 The Council at its first meeting shall elect a Speaker and Deputy Speaker from among the members for the duration of its term of office. In the event of either position becoming vacant, the Council shall elect a replacement to serve for the remainder of the Council’s term. The election shall be by secret ballot and by absolute majority of the votes of attending members; should such majority not be obtained on the first vote, a second vote shall be held between the two members with the highest numbers of votes. Where there is a tie between the second of the two who obtained the most votes and another candidate, this third candidate shall run in the second vote and in such an eventuality the election shall be determined by relative majority. In the event that more than one candidate obtains equal votes, the choice will be made by allotment. The session shall be chaired by the most senior member until the Speaker is elected.

 


 

Article 94

 Within two weeks of the commencement of its annual session, the Council shall form such committees from among the members as may be necessary for the performance of its functions. Such committees may discharge their functions during the recess of the Council in preparation for submission to the Council, at the beginning of the following session, of the results of their work.


 

Article 95

 The Council shall have a bureau consisting of the Speaker, his deputy and chairs of committees and it shall have a general secretariat to assist the Council in the discharge of its functions.


 

Article 96

 Maintaining order in the Council shall be the function of the Speaker.


 

Article 97

 The Shura Council shall make regulations governing its internal order and conduct of business, the work of committees, the organization of sessions, procedural and voting rules and all functions stipulated in this Constitution. The regulations shall determine disciplinary penalties for any members violating orders, or failing to attend sessions of the Council or committees without acceptable reason; and the aforementioned regulations shall be issued by law.


 

Article 98

 Sittings of the Council shall be public, but they may also be held in camera at the request of one-third of the members of the Council or at the request of the Council of Ministers.


 

Article 99

 For the sessions of the Council to be a quorum, the majority of the members must be present and the Speaker or his Deputy must also be present. In the event that a quorum is not attained, the session shall be adjourned to the next sitting.


 

Article 100

 The resolutions of the Council shall be passed by absolute majority of the attending members save in cases that require a special majority, and in the event that the votes are equal, the Speaker shall have the casting vote.


 

Article 101

 

Membership of the Council ceases by reason of:

 

1.          Death or serious incapacity,

2.         Expiry of term of membership,

3.         Resignation,

4.         Removal from office,

5.         Dissolution of the Council.


 

Article 102

 The resignation of a member shall be made in writing to the Speaker. The Speaker shall submit the resignation to the Council to determine its acceptance or refusal. The rules pertaining to this matter shall be specified by internal regulations.


 

Article 103

 No member may be removed from the Council unless he loses its confidence and esteem, or becomes disqualified through lack of one of the conditions of  membership on the basis of which he was elected, or unless he is in breach of the duties of membership. A resolution for removal from the Council shall be taken by a two-thirds majority of the members of the Council.


 

Article 104

 The Emir may dissolve the Council by a decree in which the reasons for the dissolution shall be stated. However, the Council shall not be dissolved twice for the same reason. Where the Council is dissolved, the election of a new Council shall take place within a period not exceeding six months from the date of dissolution. Until a new Council is elected, the Emir, with the assistance of the Council of Ministers, shall assume the power of legislation.


 

Article 105

 1. Every member of the Council shall have the right to propose legislative bills, and every proposal shall be referred to the relevant committee of the Council for scrutiny.  This committee will in turn submit recommendations to the Council. If the Council agrees to the amendments, the same shall be referred in draft form to the government for study and opinion. Such draft shall be returned to the Council during the same or the following session.

 

2.         Any legislative bill rejected by the Council may not be re-introduced during the same session.


 

Article 106

 1. Any draft law passed by the Council shall be referred to the Emir for ratification.

2. If the Emir declines to approve the draft law, he shall return it, together with the reasons for such rejection, to the Council within three months of the date of referral.

3. In the event that a draft law is returned to the Council within the period specified in the preceding paragraph and the Council passes the same again with a two-thirds majority of all its members, the Emir shall ratify and promulgate it. The Emir may, in exceptional circumstances, order the suspension of such Law for the period that he deems necessary to serve the higher interests of the country. If, however, the draft law is not passed by a two-thirds majority, it shall not be reconsidered within the same session.


 

Article 107

 The general draft budget shall be submitted to the Shura Council at least two months from the start of the fiscal year, and the draft budget shall not come into force except by Council approval.

The Shura Council may, with the approval of the government, make amendments to the draft budget, and in the event that the draft budget is not passed before the start of the fiscal year, the previous budget continues to be effective until the new budget is passed.

The Law shall define the method of preparing the budget and shall specify the fiscal year.


 

Article 108

 The Shura Council shall have the right to forward proposals relative to public matters to the government. If the government is unable to comply with such aspirations, it must give its reasons to the Council. The Council may comment only once on the government’s statement.


 

Article 109

 Every member of the Shura Council may address a point of clarification to the Prime Minister and to any of the ministers pertaining to matters within their jurisdiction; only the person who raised the question has the right to comment once on the response.


 

Article 110

 Every member of the Shura Council may address an interpellation to ministers on matters within their jurisdiction. An interpellation may not be made unless it is agreed on by one-third of the members of the Council. Such an interpellation may not be discussed until at least ten days from the date of submission, save in urgent circumstances and provided the minister agrees to the reduction of this period.


 

Article 111

 Every minister is responsible to the Shura Council for the performance of his ministry, and a minister may not be subjected to a vote of confidence save after an interpellation addressed to him. The vote of confidence shall be discussed if the minister so desires, or upon a request signed by fifteen members. The Council may not issue a resolution in this respect until at least ten days from the date of the submission of the request or expression of desire and a motion of no confidence in the minister shall be passed by a two-thirds majority of the members of the Council. The minister shall be deemed to have relinquished his office as of the date of the no-confidence resolution.


 

Article 112

 A Minister of the Council shall in no circumstances be held blamable for opinions or statements he makes in respect of matters within the jurisdiction of the Council.


 

Article 113

1.        Except when a member of the Shura Council is found in flagrante delicto, a member shall not be arrested, detained, searched or subjected to investigation without the prior permission of the Council. Where the Council has not issued a resolution on the request for such permission within one month from the receipt of the said request, permission shall be deemed to have been given. The permission shall be issued by the Speaker of the Council when the latter is not in session.

 

 

2.         In a case of in flagrante delicto, the Council must be notified of the measures taken against the offending member, and where the Council is not in session, such notification should be made at the first subsequent session.


 

Article 114

 

Members of the Council shall not be permitted to assume roles within public office save in exceptional cases where permissible under the Constitution.


 

Article 115

 The members of the Shura Council shall aim to conduct themselves in such a way as to serve the interests of the country and shall not in any way use their official positions to further their own interests or those of their acquaintances. The Law shall determine any proscribed activities for members of the Shura Council.


 

Article 116

 The Speaker of the Council, his Deputy and the members shall be remunerated as determined by law. Such remuneration shall be due as of the date of taking the oath before the Council.


 

Chapter IV: The Executive Authority

Article 117

 No one save a person of original Qatari nationality shall assume a ministerial post.


 

Article 118

 The formation of the Council of Ministers shall be by Emiri Order at the proposal of the Prime Minister. The Emir may entrust the Prime Minister or any other minister with responsibility for one or more ministries, and the Law shall specify the powers of ministers.


 

Article 119

 Prior to assuming office, the Prime Minister and the ministers shall take the following oath before the Emir:-

“I,…, do solemnly swear by Almighty Allah to be loyal to the country and to the Emir , respect Shari’a Law, the Constitution and the Law, fully safeguard the interests of the people, perform my duties faithfully, conscientiously, and with honour, and fully safeguard the territorial integrity and safety of the State”.


 

Article 120

 The Council of Ministers shall assist the Emir in discharging his functions and exercising his powers in accordance with this Constitution and the provisions of the Law.


 

Article 121

 As determined in this Constitution and in the provisions of the Law, the Council of Ministers, in its capacity as the highest executive organ, shall administer all the internal and external affairs falling within its jurisdiction. The Council of Ministers shall specifically perform the following functions:

1.   Drafting of laws and decrees and submission of the same to the Shura Council for debate. Should such draft laws be approved by the Advisory Council, they shall be referred to the Emir for ratification and promulgation in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.

2.         Approval of the regulations and decisions prepared by ministries and other government organs related to their respective jurisdiction, for the implementation of the Law in accordance with their provisions.

3.         Supervision of the implementation of laws, decrees, regulations and resolutions.

4.         Establishment and regulation of government departments, public authorities and corporate bodies in accordance with the Law.

5.          Supreme control of the financial and administrative systems of the government.

6.         Appointment and dismissal of civil servants in cases where such appointments and dismissals do not fall within the jurisdiction of the Emir or the power of the ministers as specified by the Law.

7.         Drafting general regulations that adequately ensure the maintenance of internal security and public order in all parts of the State in accordance with the Law.

8.         Administration of the finances of the State and preparation of its draft budget as determined by this Constitution and the provisions of the Law.

9.         Approval of economic projects and methods of their implementation.

10.      Preserving the interests of the State abroad and maintenance of its international relations and foreign affairs.

11.       Preparation of a report at the beginning of every fiscal year to include to include a detailed statement of home and international policies. The report shall be accompanied by a plan proposing the most advantageous ways of achieving comprehensive development of the State, providing the necessary conditions for its development and prosperity, and consolidating its security and stability in accordance with the basic guiding principles of the policy of the State as stated in this Constitution. The said report shall be submitted to the Emir for approval.

12.       Any other functions vested in it by this Constitution or the Law.


 

Article 122

 The ministers shall implement general government policy, each within the limits of their own jurisdiction.

The Emir may request the Prime Minister and the ministers to submit reports on any State matter that falls within their remit.


 

Article 123

 The Prime Minister and the ministers are collectively responsible to the Emir for the implementation of general government policy, and each one of them is individually responsible to the Emir for the manner in which he carries out his duties and exercises his functions.


 

Article 124

 The Law shall determine the remuneration of the Prime Minister and the ministers, and all provisions pertaining to ministers shall apply to the Prime Minister unless otherwise stipulated.


 

Article 125

 The Prime Minister shall preside over the sessions of the Council of Ministers, organize its proceedings and supervise coordination of work among the various ministries in order to achieve unity and harmony among the governmental organs of the State. The Prime Minister shall sign, in the name and on behalf of the Council of Ministers, decisions made by the Council. He shall also submit to the Emir the decisions of the Council on matters requiring an Emiri Resolution for approval and promulgation in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.

 


 

Article 126

 The meetings of the Council of Ministers shall be quorum if a majority of its members are present, provided that the Prime Minister or his deputy is present. The discussions of the Council shall be in camera, and its decisions shall be made by a majority of the members present. In cases where votes are equal, the Prime Minister shall have the casting vote. The minority shall abide by the opinion of the majority.

 


 

Article 127

 The Council of Ministers shall establish its own internal regulations and it shall have a general secretariat to assist in the discharge of its functions.


 

Article 128

 On taking up their positions, ministers shall aim to serve the interests of the country and shall not in any way misuse their official positions to further their own interests or those of their acquaintances. The Law shall determine activities that are restricted for ministers and actions committed during their term of office for which they are accountable, and the said Law shall specify the manner of accountability.


 

Chapter V: The Judicial Authority

Article 129

 The supremacy of the Law is the foundation of governance in the State. The honour of the judiciary, its integrity and the impartiality of judges safeguard the rights and liberties of the people.


 

Article 130

 The judiciary shall be independent and it shall be vested in courts of different jurisdictions. The courts shall pass their judgments according to the Law.


 

Article 131

 The independence of the Judiciary shall be safeguarded and no interference whatsoever shall be permitted with court proceedings and the course of justice.


 

Article 132

 The Law shall regulate the levels and divisions of courts and define their jurisdiction and powers. The jurisdiction of military tribunals is restricted, except when martial law is in force, to military crimes committed by staff of the armed and the security forces within the limitations specified by the Law.


 

Article 133

 Court sessions shall be public except when a court decides, in the interests of public order or morality, to hold them in camera. In all cases, judgments shall be pronounced in an open session.


 

Article 134

 Judges cannot be removed from office save in cases specified by the Law. The said Law shall also specify the rules and disciplinary procedures applicable to judges.


 

Article 135

 Access to justice shall be guaranteed to all people. The Law shall specify the procedures and manner of exercising this right.


 

Article 136

 The Public prosecutor shall conduct public prosecutions in the name of the people, supervise law enforcement, and ensure the application of criminal laws. The law shall regulate the functions of this body and shall set out details pertaining to the tenure/conditions of employment/functions/roles/responsibilities of staff in the office of the Public Prosecutor.

 


 

Article 137

 The judiciary shall have a Supreme Council to supervise the proper functioning of courts of law and their auxiliary organs. The Law shall determine the composition, powers and functions of the said Council.


 

Article 138

 The Law shall determine the competent body entrusted with the settlement of administrative disputes and define its structure and manner of discharging its functions.


 

Article 139

 The Law shall regulate the method of settling conflicts of jurisdiction or judgment among the judicial bodies.


 

Article 140

 The Law shall specify the competent judicial body for the settling of disputes pertaining to the constitutionality of laws and regulations and shall define its powers, appeals systems and the procedures to be followed before the said body. It shall also specify the consequences of a judgment.


 

Part 5

Concluding Provisions

Article 141

 

Article 141

The Emir shall promulgate this Constitution and it shall come into force the day immediately following the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

 


 

Article 142

 Laws shall be published in the official Gazette after ratification and promulgation within two weeks of their issue, and unless otherwise stated in the laws, such laws shall come into force a month after the date of their publication.


 

Article 143

 All provisions embodied in laws and regulations in force at the time this Constitution takes effect shall continue to be valid and effective unless where amended thereby. The enforcement of this Constitution shall not affect the provisions of the treaties and international agreements to which the State of Qatar is a party.


 

Article 144

 The Emir, or one-third of the members of the Shura Council, shall each have the prerogative to apply for the amendment of one or more of the Articles of this Constitution. If the majority of members of the Council accept the amendment in principle, the Council shall proceed to scrutinize it Article by Article. The amendment shall be passed by a two-thirds majority of the members of the Council. The said amendment shall not come into force without the approval of the Emir and its publication in the official Gazette. On the other hand, should the amendment proposal be rejected in principle or in substance, it may not be re-introduced within one year of the date of its rejection.


 

Article 145

 Provisions pertaining to the rule of the State and the rule of succession thereto may not be subject to application for amendment.


 

Article 146

 Provisions pertaining to rights and public liberties may not be subject to amendment except for the purpose of granting more rights and guarantees in the interest of the citizen.


 

Article 147

 The functions of the Emir set out in this Constitution may not be subject to an application for amendment during any period when someone is deputizing for him.


 

Article 148

 No Article of this Constitution may be proposed for amendment within a period of ten years from the date of its coming into force.


 

Article 149

 No provision of this Constitution may be suspended, except when martial law is in force and within the limits specified by the Law. However, the convening of a session of the Shura Council may not be suspended, nor may the immunity of its members be violated during this period.


 

Article 150

 The Amended Provisional Constitution issued on 19th April 1972, which is in force in the State, shall be repealed. The provisions pertaining to the current Shura Council shall remain in force until a new Council is elected.


 

Please do not consider the material presented above Official 

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