The Cape Verde constitution adopted in 1980 and revised in 1992, 1995, and 1999 forms the basis of government. The president is head of state and is elected by popular vote for a 5-year term; the most recent elections were held in February 2001. The prime minister is head of government and proposes other ministers and secretaries of state. The prime minister is nominated by the National Assembly and appointed by the president. Members of the National Assembly are elected by popular vote for 5-year terms; the most recent elections were held in 2001. Nationwide municipal elections will be held March 21, 2004.

The judicial system is comprised of a Supreme Court of Justice--whose members are appointed by the president, the National Assembly, and the Board of the Judiciary--and regional courts. Separate courts hear civil, constitutional and criminal cases. Appeal is to the Supreme Court.

Cape Verde enjoys a stable democratic system. The Movement for Democracy (MpD) captured a governing majority in the National Assembly in the country's first multi-party general elections in 1991. The MpD was returned to power with a larger majority in the general elections held in December 1995. In 2001, the PAICV regained power. Currently, there are four parties with seats in the National Assembly--PAICV 40, MPD 30, PCD 1, and PTS 1.

Cape Verde maintains an embassy in the United States at 3415 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington DC 20007 (tel. 202-965-6820) and one consulate at 535 Boylston Street, Boston MA 02116 (tel. 617-353-0014).