Kiribati is governed by a 46 member, elected, unicameral parliament. While originally having no political parties, Kiribati has moved to a loose party system consisting of alliances formed over specific issues.

The Government is led by the President, who is also Head of State. The president appoints a Vice President and Cabinet to assist in the functions of government. Many of the islands have Island Councils who are elected to deal with local government issues. Island Councils generate and spend revenue relatively free from any central governmental control.

All adult Kiribati nationals entitled to vote in the four-yearly elections.