The Prime Minister of Qatar holds the position of head of government, and is technically the second most powerful official in the country after the Emir, in a
form of government which is officially a
constitutional monarchy, but in practice is more often characterized as an
absolute monarchy and
autocracy. The prime minister's authority is entirely derivative of the Emir's power. Analysts consistently note that the Emir holds the power to appoint, dismiss, and accept the resignation of the Prime Minister and all ministers, with the emir maintaining ultimate
executive and
legislative authority, and the prime minister acting as a supervisor and operational manager implementing the emir's vision. ==List of officeholders (1970–present)==