Qatar has an authoritarian semi-constitutional hereditary monarchy. The country is ruled by the Emir from the Al Thani family, who is head of state and chief executive. The Emir holds nearly all executive and legislative authority, appoints the prime minister and cabinet, and controls the judiciary. The government system includes a Council of Ministers appointed by the Emir, and a Consultative Assembly which is partially elected but has limited powers to reject legislation or dismiss ministers. Political parties are banned, and candidates run as independents. The Emir's role is influenced by Islamic law (Sharia) and traditional consultation with leading notables and religious authorities, though he is directly accountable to no one. This structure makes Qatar resemble an autocratic regime within a framework of constitutional monarchy principles.
