Belizean
National Assembly is a bicameral legislature, which is made up of the Senate and House of Representatives. According to the Chapter 6 of Belizean Constitution, National Assembly of Belize is given the responsibility to frame laws for maintaining order, peace and good governance.
The first National Assembly of Belize was introduced after the general elections of 1954. During this time the National Assembly consisted of only 9 members. Till 1981, Belize National Assembly did not have a Senate because Belize was Great Britain' colony.
National Assembly in Belize is elected for a term of 5 years if not the Belizean governor general dissolves it earlier. It must convene one session every year. During wars, national Assembly's life can be extended up to 1- 2 years. National Assembly can be dissolved by the governor general with the Prime Minister's conformation.
The qualifications required for becoming the member of Senate and House of Representative is same. Some of these qualifications are:
- He or she must be a Belizean citizen
- Must be 18 years of age
- He or she must have lived in the country for 1 year at least before her or his appointment or nomination to the Senate or House.
- All members of police force or armed forces are excluded from becoming a member of Senate or House of Representative.
- Persons holding government office are barred from becoming a member in either senate or house.
National Assembly of Belize forms an important part in governmental system of the country.
