St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth of Nations.
Queen Elizabeth II is head of state (since 6 February 1952) and is represented on the island by Governor General Sir Fredrick Nathaniel Ballantyne (since 2 September 2002).

Independence was achieved on October 27th, 1979.

The head of government: Prime Minister Ralph E. Gonsalves (since 29 March 2001)
The House of Assembly has 15 elected representatives and six senators who are appointed by the Governor General on the advice of the Prime Minister.

The parliamentary term of office is five years, although the Prime Minister may call elections at any time.