The Gambia operates under a presidential republic framework. The President of the Gambia is both the head of state and the head of government. The president is elected by popular vote for a five-year term and can serve for an unlimited number of terms. The president has significant powers, including the ability to appoint and dismiss cabinet ministers, judges, and governors of the regional divisions, as well as to dissolve the National Assembly, negotiate and ratify treaties, and declare a state of emergency.

The executive branch of the government includes the President and the Cabinet. The Cabinet, which advises the President, consists of ministers appointed by the President. They oversee various government departments and implement the country’s laws and policies. The Vice-President serves as the President’s principal assistant and is appointed by the President.

The legislative branch of the Gambia is the National Assembly, a unicameral legislature with 58 seats. Out of these, 53 members are elected in single-seat constituencies by simple majority vote, and five are appointed by the President, serving five-year terms. The National Assembly is responsible for making laws, overseeing the work of the executive, and approving national budgets. The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature. It comprises the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal, the High Court, and Magistrate Courts. The Chief Justice is appointed by the President.