An Overview of the political system of Qatar
The modern State of Qatar gained its independence from the UK on September 3, 1971. The country’s constitution was ratified by public referendum on April 29, 2003; it was endorsed by the Emir on June 8, 2004; and it became effective on June 9, 2005.
Executive Branch:
Qatar is an emirate, and its Head of State (since 1995) is the Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani. He also holds the positions of Minister of Defense and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. The emirate is hereditary, so there are no elections for this position. The heir apparent is Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani.
The head of government is the Prime Minister Hamad bin Jasim bin Jabir al-Thani, and the Deputy Prime Minister is Abdallah bin Hamad al-Atiyah. These positions are appointed by the Emir.
The Emir has a cabinet/council of ministers, which he appoints.
Legislative Branch:
The Advisory Council has 45 members, 30 of whom are elected by direct, general secret ballot, and 15 of whom are appointed by the Emir. The term of service of the appointed members expires when these members resign their seats or are relieved from their posts.
Judicial Branch:
The legal system is based on Islamic and civil law codes, and a discretionary system of law controlled by the Emir. Islamic law dominates family and personal issues.
There are three types of courts:
- Preliminary Courts (which decide on doctrinal issues (hudood), punishments criminal, civil and commercial, personal affairs, inheritance, administrative disputes and other cases);
- Appeals Courts; and
- Cassation Courts.
A Judiciary Supreme Council was established in 1999, and there are also administrative Presidencies over the Courts of Justice and the Sharia courts. All judges are appointed by the Emir for a renewable 3-year term, on the recommendation of the Supreme Judiciary Council.
Other:
Additionally, in April 2007, Qatar held nationwide elections for a 29-member Central Municipal Council (CMC), which has limited consultative powers aimed at improving the provision of municipal services. (The first CMC election had been held in March 1999). Terms are for four years.
Male and female Qataris aged 18 and older are able to vote, and run as candidates for election.
There are no political parties in Qatar.
