Draco Scerio SPD,
Q. Vaemarianus Scerius wrote:What exactly do these positions entail? I am more of a scholar, not really a politician, but I am always willing to help where help is needed.
Well, in case the minimal explanations in the first postings didn't help, you can always consult our regulae principes which has better explanations on these positions. However, because I realise that most sodales won't really bother to read the legalese, here's a more elaborate introduction.
Rogator. Two rogatores each year are to count the votes of the elections; generally there are two to three elections or votes during the year, often also for legislation within the community. It's an unspectacular job, and you can't run for any other position while you're rogator, but the workload is very little. You just have to be there when it's required, and tally the votes (usually never more than 50).
Aedilis. I guess one could say this is one of the most demanding offices. Administring the forum is relatively easy because the software is user-friendly, but building, updating or changing the site is not an easy task, certainly not since it has improved to the point that we now need good and skilled webmasters to take over Garrulus's excellent work. Aediles have to make sure everything on the site is updated and correct. When I was aedilis, I usually did one or two updates per month. Aediles' decisions can be overruled by praetores and consules. The number of aediles requested may change each year, but the two with the most votes are granted membership of the Senate.
Praetor. Next to rogator probably the least demanding office, but with its own tasks nonetheless. Praetores rule internal disputes between members, but they can also propose legislation or initiate an election procedure through the Comitia. Praetores have membership in the Senate. On some occasions they need to cooperate with the censores in removing members. In an emergency, they can also serve as back-ups to the consules in case both are absent. Praetorial decisions can be overruled by the consules.
Consul. The two consules are in charge of the Societas and its workings. This usually requires a general oversight of what the other magistrates (and rectors) are doing, if they are doing their job well etc etc. Some consules have had a more distinct vision and propose new legislation, offer amendments and so forth, while others generally drift along with the tides. They are the primary spokespersons of the Societas. Consules can use their veto against each other.
Censor. There are always two censores, but each year only one is elected. This means that this office, like aedilis, requires a more or less constant attention because the term of office spans two years. Censores are in charge of processing new applicants, checking their names and data, and adding people to the various alba we have (album sodalium, album magistratuum, album senatorum). In terms of 'moral' authority, this is the highest position in the Societas. This is to point out that a censor, who is generally the first person new members are in contact with, should possess some moral integrity and natural friendliness.
I hope this helps?
Cura ut valeas!
Draco
Gn. Dionysius Draco Invictus