The other pressing issue facing the Government has been the Tuareg question. The collapse of the Tuareg's livestock-based economy through drought has caused growing tension between the Tuareg and the rest of the Malian population. Early in 1992, the agreed schedule for the introduction of representative government was met and presidential elections were held in April of that year. Over the next few years, the political situation was beset by strikes, student protests and an almost unfathomable series of 'breakaways' and alliances within the multitude of political parties, as well as a revolving door of prime ministers, none of whom lasted more than a year. A new constitution allowing for presidential elections was introduced in 1992 and approved by a national referendum, after the overthrow of the military dictatorship by the Conseil National de R conciliation .
Executive power rests with the president who is elected for a five-year term.
The president appoints a prime minister who, in turn, appoints a Council of Ministers. A 147-member National Assembly, also elected for five years, holds legislative powers.