Government

Turkmenistan is governed under the constitution of 1992. The president, who is both head of state and head of government, is elected by popular vote for a five-year term. There are two legislative bodies. The People's Council, which has the greater authority, consists of up to 2,500 delegates, some elected by popular vote and some appointed. Members of the 50-seat National Assembly are popularly elected to serve five-year terms. A law adopted in 2003 effectively makes the president the head of both the executive and legislative branches of government. Administratively, the country is divided into five provinces, or weloyats, and the capital area.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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