Malta, independent from the United Kingdom since 1964, developed a parliamentary representative democratic republic, with executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

After gaining its independence from the United Kingdom, Malta initially retained Queen Elizabeth II as their queen, with a Governor-General exercising executive authority on her behalf. Malta became a republic of the Commonwealth on December 13,1974, with the President as head of state. The country adopted an official policy of neutrality in 1980, and joined the European Union in 2004.

Political System

The Republic of Malta is considered a parliamentary representative democratic republic, with the seat of government centered in the capital city, Valletta. The country originally obtained its independence from the United Kingdom on September 21, 1964. The national holiday is Independence Day, celebrated on September 21.

Malta's current constitution was originally adopted in 1964 and has been amended many times. The document allows for universal suffrage at 18 years of age.

Administrative Regions

Malta has no specific administrative regions, however 68 local councils exist to help carry out administrative orders. The local councils were created in 1993 and are the most basic form of local government, serving a statistical, but not administrative purpose. There are no intermediate levels between the local councils and the national government.

Executive Branch

The President is Malta's chief of state. This person is elected by the House of Representatives for a five year term, and is eligible for a second term. Edward Fenech Adami, the current President, was elected to the position on April 4, 2004.

The head of government is the Prime Minister. Following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or coalition is typically appointed to this position by the President for a five year term. Lawrence Gonzi, the current Prime Minister, began his official duties on March 23, 2004. The Deputy Prime Minister is appointed by President based on the Prime Minister's recommendation. Tonio Borg, the current Deputy Prime Minister, assumed his duties in March 2004.

All cabinet ministers are appointed by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister. The current ministers are:

• Communications and National Projects - Austin Gatt
• Education and Culture - Dolores Cristina
• Finance - Tonio French
• Foreign Affairs - Tonio Borg
• Gozo - Giovanna Debono
• Justice and Home Affairs - Carm Mifsud Bonnici
• Resources and Rural Affairs - George Pullicino
• Social Policy - John Dalli

Parliamentary Secretaries:

• Elderly and Community Care - Mario Galea
• Health - Joe Cassar
• Revenues and Land - Jason Azzopardi
• Youth and Sport - Clyde Puli

Legislative Branch

The Maltese House of Representatives i a unicameral body usually consisting of 65 officials. Members are elected by popular vote via proportional representation to five year terms. Additional seats are given to the party with the largest popular vote to ensure a legislative majority.

The current structure of the House of Representatives, by political party is (number of seats):

• Nationalist Party (PN) - 34
• Maltese Labor Party (MLP) - 31

Judicial Branch

The country’s judicial branch consists of the Constitutional Court and the Court of Appeal. Judges for both courts are appointed by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister.

Legal System

The Maltese legal system is based on English common and Roman civil law. The country has accepted compulsory International Court of Justice (ICJ) jurisdiction with reservations.

References

Barrientos, Miguel. Index Mundi. 2007.

Government of Malta .

"New Cabinet Sworn In." TimesofMalta.com. March 12, 2008.