Cape Verde became independent in 1975. The type of system adopted by the government is semi-presidential.

There are two main political parties: the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV) created in 1981, replacing the former PAIGC, created in 1956, and the Movement for Democracy (MPD) created in 1990.

The president is elected for a term of five years. The Prime Minister proposes other ministers and secretaries of State and is the head of government and the President of the Republic is the head of state. Executive power is exercised by the president and the government. Legislative power is exercised by the government and the National Assembly. The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature.