Kindara is a Monarchy, though the Ruler is elected monthly and the Judge quarterly. It adds the edge of a Republic without us actually calling it a republic.
Of course, Edmund has always run unopposed, as did Tissaphernes before him, so I'm not sure how well the monthly system is working as intended.
That is a good example. So what is left of being a monarchy? Probably harder to protest the ruler (and council) out of office? The council members might be able to hold several titles at once? I know at least that there were restrictions on that in republics and democracies before.
Regarding the unopposed in elections. It is the same in republics/democracies. Few will stand for election if they know their chances of winning are minimal. But that probably also means that there is no one in the realm "the people" trusts would do a better job (at least no one that wants to have these positions).
