The South African Government operates as a constitutional democracy, established after the end of apartheid in 1994. It consists of three branches: the Executive, led by the President, the Legislative, which includes the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces, and the Judiciary, which interprets laws. The government is responsible for creating and enforcing laws, providing public services, and promoting social and economic development. It also aims to protect the rights of citizens as outlined in the Constitution, which is regarded as one of the most progressive in the world.