Portal:Ancient Rome/Selected article/11
In the Roman Republic, Tribune, Tribune of the Plebs, or Tribune of the People was a title shared by elected officials. Tribunes could convene the Plebeian Council and act as its president—in which capacity they had the right to propose legislation before it. The magistracy was sacrosanct, so any assault on their person was prohibited. Tribunes could veto actions taken by magistrates, and intervene legally on behalf of plebeians. The tribune could also summon the Senate and make proposals before it. The tribune's power, however, was only in effect while he was within Rome; his ability to veto did not affect regional governors. Patricians were legally prohibited from holding the office of Tribune. Tribunes were elected by the Plebeian Council, which was composed of non-aristocrats that owned land, rather than by the general citizenship of Rome. Each tribune was given two plebeian aediles to assist them.