The Prime Minister of Cuba (Spanish: Primer Ministro de Cuba or Presidente del Consejo de Ministros) is the head of the Council of Ministers, which constitutes the executive branch of the Cuban government. The officeholder is responsible for directing the work of the cabinet, implementing policies adopted by the National Assembly of People's Power, and overseeing the day‑to‑day administration of state affairs.
Constitutional basis
- The position was established by the 1976 Constitution of the Republic of Cuba, which created a Council of State and a Council of Ministers, the latter headed by a Prime Minister.
- In 1976, the role was effectively merged with that of the President of the Council of State, concentrating executive power in a single office.
- The 2019 Constitution re‑established the separate post of Prime Minister, restoring a dual‑leadership structure: the President of the Republic (who also serves as President of the Council of State) and the Prime Minister (President of the Council of Ministers).
Appointment and tenure
- The Prime Minister is nominated by the President of the Republic and elected by the National Assembly of People’s Power.
- The term of office coincides with the five‑year term of the National Assembly, and the Prime Minister may be re‑elected.
Functions and powers
- Presides over meetings of the Council of Ministers and coordinates the activities of ministries and state enterprises.
- Proposes the composition of the cabinet to the President and the National Assembly.
- Implements laws, decrees, and resolutions passed by the National Assembly and the Council of State.
- Represents the government in domestic and, when delegated, international affairs.
Historical overview
| Prime Minister | Term of office | Notable notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fidel Castro (as Prime Minister) | 1959 – 1976 | Served as head of government after the Cuban Revolution; the 1976 Constitution merged the roles of President and Prime Minister. |
| Office abolished | 1976 – 2019 | Executive authority concentrated in the President of the Council of State. |
| Manuel Marrero Cruz | 21 December 2021 – present | First holder of the reinstated post under the 2019 Constitution; previously served as Mayor of Havana. |
Current incumbent
- Manuel Marrero Cruz has served as Prime Minister since 21 December 2021. Prior to his appointment, he was the Mayor (President of the People's Council) of Havana and held various positions within the Cuban tourism sector.
Relation to other offices
- The Prime Minister works closely with the President of the Republic (currently Miguel Díaz‑Canel), who retains authority over foreign policy, defense, and overall state direction.
- The Council of Ministers, under the Prime Minister’s leadership, includes ministers responsible for sectors such as health, education, finance, and foreign affairs.
Legal references
- Constitution of the Republic of Cuba (1976, amended 2019), Articles pertaining to the Council of Ministers and its President.
- Law No. 81 of 27 September 2019, which operationalizes the functions of the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers.
The position of Prime Minister of Cuba therefore serves as the chief administrator of the Cuban government's executive apparatus, distinct from the ceremonial and policy‑setting role of the President of the Republic.
