CONSTIFPP.DOC 1999] 3. 4. 2/7/01 10:40 PM CONSTITUTION OF ERITREA 537 However, where it is deemed necessary to lift his immunity, such a member may be charged in accordance with procedures determined by the National Assembly. No member of the National Assembly may be charged or otherwise be answerable for statements made or submitted by him at any meeting of the National Assembly or any meeting of its committees or any utterance or statement made outside the National Assembly in connection with his duty as member thereof. The duties, responsibilities, immunities and compensation of the members of the National Assembly shall be determined by law; and all members shall be entitled to the protection of such immunities. CHAPTER V: THE EXECUTIVE Article 39 - The President: Head of State and Government 1. 2. 3. The President of Eritrea is the Head of the State and the Government of Eritrea and the Commander-in-Chief of the Eritrean Defence Forces. The executive authority is vested in the President, which he shall exercise, in consultation with the Cabinet, pursuant to the provisions of this Constitution. The President shall ensure respect of the Constitution; the integrity and dignity of the State; the efficient management of the public service; and the interests and safety of all citizens, including the enjoyment of their fundamental rights and freedoms recognised under this Constitution. Article 40 - Qualification to be a Candidate to the Office of the President Any member of the National Assembly who seeks to be a candidate to the office of the President of Eritrea shall be a citizen of Eritrea by birth. Article 41 - Election and Term of Office of the President 1. The President shall be elected from amongst the members of the National Assembly by an absolute majority vote of its