The Angolan Government operates as a unitary presidential republic, where the President of Angola serves as both the head of state and the head of government. The government is structured into three branches: the executive, legislative, and judicial. The President is elected for a five-year term and can appoint ministers to assist in governance. The National Assembly is the legislative body, consisting of members elected by the public. The judiciary is independent, ensuring that laws are applied fairly. Angola's political landscape has been shaped by its history, including the civil war that lasted from 1975 to 2002, which significantly influenced its current governance.