Data code: LA
Type of government: Communist state
Capital: Vientiane
Administrative divisions: 16 provinces (khoueng, singular and
plural) and 1 municipality* (kampheng nakhon, singular and plural);
Attapu, Bokeo, Bolikhamxai, Champasak, Houaphan, Khammouan,
Louangnamtha, Louangphabang, Oudomxai, Phongsali, Salavan,
Savannakhet, Viangchan*, Viangchan, Xaignabouli, Xekong, Xiangkhoang
Independence: 19 July 1949 (from France)
National holiday: National Day, 2 December (1975) (proclamation of the Lao People's Democratic Republic)
Constitution: promulgated 14 August 1991
Legal system: based on traditional customs, French legal norms and procedures, and Socialist practice
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
chief of state: President NOUHAK PHOUMSAVAN (since 25 November 1992)
was elected for a five-year term by the National Assembly
head of government: Prime Minister Gen. KHAMTAI SIPHANDON (since 15
August 1991) was appointed for a five-year term by the president
with the approval of the National Assembly; Deputy Prime Minister
KHAMPHOUI KEOBOUALAPHA (since NA)
cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president,
approved by the National Assembly