Government of Gruenberg

Gruenberg cannot be easily classified under conventional political nomenclature, and its form of government does not conform to traditional models. This is principally because there is no separation of powers, and thus although Gruenberg might be described as a constitutional monarchy, it has typically functioned as much closer to an absolute monarchy. Recent reforms and a changing political climate see the power of the Sultan only likely to wane, however. There is also no separation of church and state.

The Head of State is the Sultan, currently Gardab Woltzten IX. The line of succession is exclusively male, and in descending age order, such that the oldest son of the incumbent is first in line to the throne. Only one family has occupied the throne: the Woltztens. The longevity and stability of this rule has led to their classification as a dynasty.

There is also a high degree of devolution in Gruenberg's political system, representing the tribal history of the nation. Towns have elected councils with powers usually including aspects of taxation, education and law and order. The nation is divided into administrative districts, each with elected councils that oversee town policies, and then each major province has a regional assembly, which exercises considerable legislative power.

At the federal level, the legislature is bicameral. The Regional Congress consists of 200 seats, with 40 representatives from each administrative region; the 500-seat National Congress is apportioned on the basis of straight popular vote. The Head of Government is the head of the largest party — this has always been the Monarchists, and hence the Sultan shares both Head of State and Head of Government titles. The Cabinet is appointed by the Head of Government. The Court and federal government technically have the power to legislate on all matters, but concern themselves mainly with foreign policy and economic and military affairs.

A distinct feature of Gruenberger governance is the role of the Viziery. The Grand Vizier is a political appointment, but is immune from dismissal, and so one Vizier may serve more than one Sultan. The Viziery is staffed by a mixture of civil and religious personnel, and has numerous areas of responsibility. It is also completely unaccountable to the federal government, and is seen as a buffer against the ability of the people to vote the Sultan's powers away.