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Laos President is the head of the state. He is elected by a two-thirds vote of the National Assembly. He is supposed to serve a five year term. The presidency has turned into important political power from mere ceremonial position according to constitutional provision. He is the one to declare states of emergency.
Other than the Prime Minister Laos President can also appoint and dismiss the members of Government if the national Assembly approves it. Even the provincial governors, mayors of municipalities and generals of armed forces can be appointed or dismissed by him. "When necessary" he presides over the meetings of government.
During the drafting process of the constitution the powers accorded to the president grew perceptively. However after the promulgation of the constitution the sudden death of Kaysone who turned into the President of Laosfrom Prime Minister generated doubts regarding the relative power potential of the two new offices
President in Laos still hold the power to promulgate laws and issue decrees and state acts. He remains the head of the armed forces. The office of the Laos President was created in 1975 after the abolition of the monarchy. However the first President of Laos belong to the old ruling family.
Some of the Laos Presidents were Souphanouvong, Vongvichit, Phomvihane, Phoumsavanh, Siphandon, Sayasone. The President looks after the progress of the country. If necessary he can declare war, being the head of the state.
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