Composition of the Senate

(1) The Senate is composed of 26 Senators elected or appointed as follows: (a) 12 Senators elected by specific electoral colleges in accordance with national administrative entities; (b) eight Senators appointed by the President of the Republic, giving particular consideration to the principles of national unity, the representation of historically marginalised groups, and any other national interests; (c) four Senators designated by the National Consultative Forum of Political Organisations; (d) one academician or researcher from public institutions of higher learning, holding at least the rank of associate professor, elected by the academic and research staff of those institutions; (e) one academician or researcher from private institutions of higher learning, holding at least the rank of associate professor, elected by the academic and research staff of the same institutions. (2) In addition to the Senators referred to in Paragraph (1) of this Article, former Heads of State who successfully completed their term of office or resigned voluntarily, become Senators upon their request to the President of the Senate and approval by the Bureau of the Senate within 30 days. (3) Modalities by which the Supreme Court approves the list of senatorial candidates, their requirements and their election are determined by the organic law governing elections. (4) The organic law governing elections may also increase or reduce the number or categories referred to in Paragraph (1) of this Article. (5) Senators appointed by the President of the Republic are not subject to approval by the Supreme Court and their appointment follows the election and designation of Senators from other organs. (6) The organs responsible for the appointment of Senators take into account national unity and the principle of gender equality. (7) At least 30% of Senators elected and Senators appointed must be females. (8) Disputes arising from the application of this Article are adjudicated by a competent Court.