What are the two chief magistrates elected yearly with imperium called?

The two chief magistrates elected yearly with imperium in ancient Rome are known as consuls. This office was established during the Roman Republic and served as the highest civil and military authority. Each year, two consuls were elected to serve together to avoid the concentration of power in a single individual, reflecting the Romans' desire for a system of checks and balances in governance.

Consuls held the significant power of imperium, the authority to command the army and govern the state. They also had the responsibility of presiding over the Senate and the assemblies, ensuring the enactment of laws, and leading military campaigns when necessary. The dual leadership model allowed for collaboration and accountability, as each consul had the ability to veto the other's decisions.

Other options in the question refer to different roles within Roman society. Praetors were magistrates primarily responsible for administering justice and could also have imperium but were of a secondary rank compared to the consuls. Publicanus refers to tax collectors or public contractors, and novus homo denotes a "new man" or someone who is the first in their family to become part of the Roman Senate or achieve a significant political office. Each of these has a unique function and significance in the Roman political structure, distinct from the role