On January 7, 1964, The Bahamas received its first written constitution, in which Bahamians were granted virtually full control over their internal affairs, with the British Governor retaining responsibility for external affairs, defence and internal security. Cabinet government was introduced for the first time.

A most significant change occurred in 1969 with a new constitution whereby the British Government agreed to entrust matters dealing with internal security and external affairs to the Bahamas Government.

The final constitutional change was consummated on 20 June 1973, when the British parliament enacted the Bahamas Independence Order 1973, granting The Bahamas full independence. On 10 July 1973, the Commonwealth of The Bahamas became a sovereign independent state, and chose to remain a member of the Commonwealth. Today it remains a member of the Commonwealth, the United Nations, the Caribbean Community, and the Organization of American States.

The most recent general elections were held on 16th September, 2021, which saw the election to government of the Progress Liberal Party (PLP) under the leadership of the Most Honourable Philip Davis, who was sworn in on 20th September, 2021 as the Nation’s seventh Prime Minister.