THE REPUBLIC OF CONGO: GOVERNMENT STEPS DOWN AFTER PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION

By Wirngo Peter Tardzenyuy 

The government of the Republic of the Congo has resigned following the swearing-in of the President, a move consistent with long-standing institutional practice.

Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso tendered the resignation of his government on April 17, 2026, just a day after the start of a new presidential mandate.

Although the Constitution of the Republic of the Congo 2015 does not specifically require a government to resign after a presidential inauguration, it provides a clear framework for how a government can leave office. Notably, Article 83 states that the government is accountable to the National Assembly, which has the power to challenge it through a vote of no confidence. If such a motion is passed, the Prime Minister is obliged to submit the government’s resignation to the President.

In practice, however, governments often step down at the start of a new presidential term to give the Head of State room to reshape or renew the executive team in line with new priorities.

The President accepted the resignation and praised members of the outgoing administration for their service from 2021 to 2026. Ministers have been asked to continue handling routine affairs pending the formation of a new government.

The development was confirmed in an official statement issued in Brazzaville on April 19, 2026.