Governing Document

Our Constitution

The complete constitution of the Mathamba Descendants Progressive Union, outlining our mission, structure, governance principles, and operational guidelines.

Community Protection

Safeguarding our heritage

Global Network

Connecting worldwide

Progressive Union

Building stronger communities

Constitution Overview

Our constitution serves as the foundational document that guides all aspects of our organization, from governance structure to member responsibilities and organizational values.

Official Documents
Download or view our official constitution and related documents

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Article I - Name and Purpose

The organization shall be known as the Mathamba Descendants Progressive Union (MDPU), established to promote unity, progress, and mutual support among Mathamba descendants worldwide.

The purpose of this organization is to:

- Foster unity and solidarity among Mathamba descendants

- Promote educational and economic development

- Preserve and celebrate our cultural heritage

- Provide mutual aid and support to members

- Advocate for social justice and community development

Article II - Membership

Membership in the MDPU is open to all descendants of Mathamba who:

- Support the organization's objectives and values

- Agree to abide by this constitution and bylaws

- Pay required membership dues (if applicable)

- Participate actively in organization activities

Membership categories include:

- Regular Members: Full voting rights and participation

- Supporting Members: Financial supporters with limited voting rights

- Honorary Members: Recognized for exceptional service

Membership may be terminated for violation of the constitution, bylaws, or code of conduct.

Article III - Governance Structure

The organization shall be governed by:

1. General Assembly: The supreme decision-making body consisting of all members

2. Executive Committee: Day-to-day operations and implementation

3. Board of Directors: Strategic oversight and policy guidance

4. Chapter Leadership: Local chapter management and coordination

The Executive Committee shall consist of:

- President

- Vice President

- Secretary General

- Treasurer

- Additional officers as needed

All officers shall be elected by the general membership for two-year terms.

Article IV - Meetings and Decision Making

Regular Meetings:

- General meetings shall be held on the first Sunday of each month

- Executive committee meetings shall be held bi-weekly

- Board meetings shall be held quarterly

- Special meetings may be called as needed

Decision Making:

- General assembly decisions require a simple majority vote

- Constitutional amendments require a two-thirds majority

- Quorum for general meetings is 25% of active members

- Proxy voting is permitted with proper documentation

All meetings shall be conducted in accordance with democratic principles and Robert's Rules of Order.

Article V - Financial Management

Financial Principles:

- All financial activities shall be conducted with transparency and accountability

- Annual budgets shall be prepared and approved by the general assembly

- Financial reports shall be presented quarterly

- External audits shall be conducted annually

Revenue Sources:

- Membership dues and contributions

- Fundraising activities and events

- Grants and donations

- Investment income

Expenditure Guidelines:

- Funds shall be used exclusively for organizational purposes

- Major expenditures require board approval

- Emergency funds shall be maintained for contingencies

- All expenses must be properly documented and approved

Article VI - Chapters and International Structure

Chapter Establishment:

- New chapters may be established with a minimum of 10 members

- Chapter applications must be approved by the executive committee

- Each chapter shall have its own leadership structure

- Chapters must comply with local laws and regulations

International Coordination:

- Regular communication between chapters is required

- Annual international conferences shall be held

- Resource sharing and collaboration is encouraged

- Cultural exchange programs shall be promoted

Chapter Responsibilities:

- Organize local activities and meetings

- Recruit and retain members

- Implement organizational programs

- Report activities to headquarters regularly

Article VII - Code of Conduct and Ethics

All members shall:

- Conduct themselves with integrity and respect

- Treat all members with dignity and fairness

- Avoid conflicts of interest

- Maintain confidentiality when required

- Promote the organization's values and mission

Prohibited Conduct:

- Discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or other protected characteristics

- Harassment or intimidation of any kind

- Misuse of organizational resources

- Violation of local, national, or international laws

- Actions that bring disrepute to the organization

Disciplinary Procedures:

- Complaints shall be investigated promptly and fairly

- Due process rights shall be respected

- Progressive discipline shall be applied

- Appeals process shall be available

Article VIII - Amendments and Dissolution

Constitutional Amendments:

- Amendments may be proposed by any member

- Proposals must be submitted in writing 30 days before voting

- Two-thirds majority vote required for adoption

- Amendments take effect immediately upon adoption

Bylaws:

- Bylaws may be adopted or amended by simple majority vote

- Bylaws must be consistent with this constitution

- Bylaws shall be reviewed annually

Dissolution:

- Organization may be dissolved by three-fourths majority vote

- Assets shall be distributed to charitable organizations with similar purposes

- All debts and obligations must be satisfied

- Final financial report must be prepared and filed

Key Constitutional Principles

The fundamental principles that guide our organization and decision-making processes

Democratic Governance
All major decisions are made through democratic processes with member participation
Transparency
Open communication and transparent decision-making processes
Accountability
Leaders and members are accountable for their actions and decisions
Inclusivity
All members are treated with respect and have equal opportunities to participate

Our Guiding Principle

"Togetherness is Strength"

This powerful motto, enshrined in our constitution, encapsulates our belief that unity, collaboration, and mutual support are the foundations of progress and success. It guides every decision we make and every initiative we undertake as an organization.

Get Involved

Understanding our constitution is the first step to becoming an active member of our community. Join us in upholding these principles and contributing to our mission.