Politics
The politics of Panama takes place in a framework of a presidential representative democratic republic, whereby the President of Panama is both head of state and head of government, and of a pluriform multi-party system. Executive power is exercised by the government. Legislative power is vested in both the government and the National Assembly. The Judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature.
Constitution
The branches are according to Panama's Political Constitution of 1972, reformed by the Actos Reformatorios of 1978, and by the Acto Constitucional in 1983, united in cooperation and limited through the classic system of checks and balances. Three independent organisations with clearly defined responsibilities are found in the Political Constitution. The first is the Comptroller General of the Republic who has the responsibility to manage public funds. There also exists the Electoral Tribunal, which has the responsibility to guarantee liberty, transparency, and the efficacy of the popular vote; and, finally, the Ministry of the Public exists to oversee interests of State and of the municipalities.
Executive Branch
The executive branch includes a president and two vice presidents. The president and the vice-presidents are elected on one ballot for a five year term by the people.
Legislative Branch
The legislative branch consists of a unicameral National Assembly (Asamblea Nacional) with 77 members, elected for a five year term in single-seat and multi-seat constituencies.
Judicial Branch
The Judicial Organ administers justice in a permanent, free and expeditious manner. It comprises the Supreme Court of Justice, the Tribunals and the judges established by law, according to the Political Constitution of the Republic of Panama (title VII, Chapter 1).
Electoral Branch
An autonomous Electoral Tribunal supervises voter registration, the election process and the activities of political parties. Everyone over the age of 18 is required to vote, although those who fail to do so are not penalised.
