The Republic of Maldives is a presidential representative republic. The executive branch consists of the President, Vice-President and Cabinet. The President and Vice-President are elected on the same ticket by popular vote for a five-year term with a two-term limit. The President serves as head of government and appoints a cabinet, subject to approval by Parliament.
Parliament is unicameral and called the Majlis, with representatives serving five-year terms elected from population-decided constituencies. The government or elected members of the Majlis may present a proposed legislation (called a bill) to the “floor” where it is then delegated to a legislative committee for debate and amendments. Standing committees are permanent, and members are assigned for two and a half years. Selected committees are purpose-specific and dissolved after achieving their mandate. Once through the committee process, the bill is sent back to the floor for a vote, where it may pass with a simple majority and be promulgated by the president within 30 days. The president has the authority to send a bill back to the Majlis with observations and objections. These may be considered by representatives who amend the legislation or pass the bill again as is.