Government, Law and Citizenship
The constitution and the Crown
The Bahamas is an independent constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy. The Governor-General represents the Crown and gives assent to bills. The Prime Minister is the leader of the party commanding a majority in the House of Assembly and heads the Cabinet, which is collectively responsible to Parliament.
Parliament
Parliament has three parts: the Crown, the appointed Senate and the elected House of Assembly. The House has 39 members elected in single-member constituencies. The Senate has 16 members: nine appointed on the Prime Minister's advice, four on the Leader of the Opposition's advice, and three at the Governor-General's discretion after consultation. A common trap is treating the Senate as elected - it is not.
Law and the courts
The judiciary is independent. Magistrates' courts hear lesser matters, the Supreme Court hears serious civil and criminal cases, and the Court of Appeal hears appeals; the Privy Council remains the final court. The rule of law means everyone, including the government, is subject to the law. Fundamental rights are protected in the Constitution.
Elections and citizenship
General elections are held at least every five years. Citizens aged 18 and over vote by secret ballot. Citizenship may be acquired by birth, descent, marriage or naturalisation. Family Island districts have local government councils.
Worked example
How a bill becomes law: first reading, second reading and debate, committee stage, third reading, Senate, Governor-General's assent, then gazette. The Constitution restricts how long the Senate may delay a money bill.
Traps
Do not call The Bahamas a republic, and do not confuse the Cabinet with Parliament.