Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Electoral political system
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Political and administrative structure
An independent nation, part of the Commonwealth of Nations. Its form of government is parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy. The head of state is the British Monarchy, represented in the country by a Governor General. The head of government is the Prime Minister, who is appointed by the Governor General based on their position as leader of the majority party or coalition in an election.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is divided into six administrative regions called "parishes".
National parliament
The National Parliament of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is unicameral. The House of Assembly of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has 23 seats, 15 of which are directly elected by universal suffrage by simple majority in single-member constituencies. In addition, there are six senators appointed by the governor general, four of whom are nominated by the leader of the majority party or coalition and two by the leader of the opposition, as well as two ex officio members, who are the speaker of the House and the attorney general.
Municipal government
There are no local government structures in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Duration of terms
Prime Minister and House of Assembly: five years.
Representation system
Representatives of the House of Assembly of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: first-past-the-post system.
Type of list
Non applicable.
Electoral constituency
House of Assembly representatives: 15 single-member constituencies.
Laws on parity and gender quotas
Does not have.
Legal instruments applicable to municipalities
Local Authorities (Termination of Dissolution) Act, 1981.
Electoral Justice
Mixed system electoral management body: Electoral Office.
Although there is government control over finances and other administrative matters, the Electoral Office is legally an independent body with regard to the conduct of elections to the House of Assembly.