Type: Democracy.

Independence: March 6, 1957.

Constitution: Entered into force January 7, 1993.

Branches: Executive--president popularly elected for a maximum of two 4-year terms; Council of State, a presidential appointed consultative body of 25 members required by the constitution. Legislative--unicameral Parliament popularly elected for 4-year terms. Judicial--independent Supreme Court justices nominated by president with approval of Parliament.

Subdivisions: Ten regions.

Political parties: New Patriotic Party, National Democratic Congress, Convention People's Party, People's National Convention, others.

Suffrage: Universal at 18.     

Source: U.S. State Dept