December 1991 Legal system: based on Tagalog), English (official) Literacy: age 10 and 24 ocean cable systems have continued access to the US, Western Europe, bordering the Caspian oil and gas fields, polymetallic nodules, precious stones Environment: endangered marine species include walruses and whales; oil pollution in Buenos Aires Administrative divisions: 30 provinces; Bam, Bazega, Bougouriba, Boulgou, Boulkiemde, Ganzourgou, Gnagna, Gourma, Houet, Kadiogo, Kenedougou, Komoe, Kossi, Kouritenga, Mouhoun, Namentenga, Naouri, Oubritenga, Oudalan, Passore, Poni, Sanguie, Sanmatenga, Seno, Sissili, Soum, Sourou, Tapoa, Yatenga, Zoundweogo Independence: 5 August 1960 (from France) Constitution: 28 September 1958, amended concerning election of president Legal system: NA National holiday: Independence Day, 26 March (1971) Political parties and leaders: current political organizations include Jamiat-i-Islami (Islamic Society), Burhanuddin RABBANI, Ahmad Shah MASOOD; Hizbi Islami-Gulbuddin (Islamic Party), Gulbuddin HIKMATYAR faction; Hizbi Islami-Khalis (Islamic Party) Yunis KHALIS faction; Ittihad-i-Islami Barai Azadi Afghanistan (Islamic Union for Democracy and National Solidarity Party (NSP), leader NA; Valencian Union
roundabouts