Iran is officially known as Islamic Republic of Iran. As the name suggest Iran’s government runs as Islamic Republic meaning, it is ruled by Islamic laws. Iran’s current government runs by a supreme leader, a president, cabinet, judicial branch and Majilesor or legislative branch.
Current Supreme Leader: Ali Hoseini-KHAMENEI (Since 1989)
The head of the government known as Supreme Leader is appointed by Islamic religious advisory board (Assembly of Experts) for life who holds the real power in the government. Supreme leader is the highest ranking political and religious authority in Iran. Supreme leader serves as the head of state, makes the decisions on major foreign policies, and overseas military and judicial appointments.("Guide: How Iran is ruled", 2009).
Current President: Hasan Fereidun RUHANI
President of Iran is elected for a four-year term by popular vote and only can be reelected for one term. Iran's president is the head of the executive branch and ensure that constitution is properly implemented. All presidential candidates are vetted by Guardian council that makes sure only the candidate that supports the religious system of government runs for president ("Guide: How Iran is ruled", 2009).
Cabinet members are selected by president, and the Supreme Leader has some control over who gets selected. The candidates also must be approved by parliament. Head of judicial branch is appointed by head of Supreme Justice Council . Legislative branch is made up of 290 members and elected by the popular vote every four years.("Guide: How Iran is ruled", 2009).
Only the political parties that support the religious system of government can participate in the election as Guardian Councils enforce it. Formal political parties are new in Iran, and most conservatives still prefer to work through political pressure groups rather than parties. Often political parties are created right before the election and disbanded after the election (“CIA - The World Factbook,” 2013).
