The Official Gazette of the Republic of Cuba has released an updated and harmonized version of Law 134, titled the "Law on the Organization and Operation of the Council of Ministers," enacted by the National Assembly of People's Power.
This revised regulation appears in the Official Gazette No. 23, Special Edition of 2026, listed as GOC-2026-635-ES23.
This publication is not a new law but a reissued version that incorporates amendments mandated by Law 186, "On the Organization of the Central State Administration," which was approved on July 30 and published in the Ordinary Official Gazette No. 90 on November 2.
Originally passed in 2020, Law 134 was designed to align the legal framework of the Council of Ministers with the 2019 Constitution, which separated the roles of President of the Republic and Prime Minister.
Key Amendments in the Council's Composition
The latest reform introduces a significant change in the composition of the body: Article 9.1 has been revised to include the chairman of the Central Bank of Cuba as a member of the Council of Ministers, effectively elevating this position to the rank of minister within the country's top executive body.
Additionally, while previously the role of deputy prime minister was compatible with that of a minister, chairman of the Central Bank of Cuba, or president of one of the institutes constituting the Central State Administration, it is now only compatible with the first two roles mentioned.
Alterations in Resignation Procedures
The procedure for resigning from the Council of Ministers has also been altered. Previously, resignations were submitted to the Prime Minister, who would forward them to the President of the Republic for approval, after consulting again with the Prime Minister. Now, upon receiving a resignation, the Prime Minister must consult with the Council of Ministers before sending the document to the President, who will decide independently without further consultations.
Structure and Responsibilities of the Council of Ministers
The law defines the Council of Ministers as "the highest executive and administrative body, constituting the Government of the Republic of Cuba," headquartered in Havana, and collectively led by the Prime Minister.
Its composition includes the Prime Minister, deputy prime ministers, the secretary, ministers, and — following the recent addition — the chairman of the Central Bank. The number of deputy prime ministers is determined by the President of the Republic after consulting the Prime Minister, with all members appointed by the National Assembly or the Council of State upon the President's proposal.
The Council of Ministers is accountable and regularly reports its activities to the National Assembly of People's Power and the President of the Republic.
Prompted by Law 186, which becomes effective on November 9 and reduced the Central State Administration bodies from 27 to 21, the update was required to be published within 30 working days of its effective date. This deadline was met ahead of schedule.
FAQs on Cuba's Council of Ministers Law Changes
What is the main change in the Council of Ministers' composition?
The primary change is the inclusion of the chairman of the Central Bank of Cuba as a member, elevating this position to ministerial status within the Council.
How has the resignation process for Council members changed?
Resignations must now be consulted with the Council of Ministers before being forwarded to the President for a decision, eliminating the need for prior consultation with the Prime Minister.
When does the updated Law 134 take effect?
The updates prompted by Law 186 take effect on November 9, with the revised version published within the required timeframe.