Yemen flagPolitics & Government Guide

Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions in Yemen

Yemen's internationally recognized government is led by the Presidential Leadership Council under Rashad al-Alimi since 2022, amid a civil war with Houthi control in the north and factional divisions in the south. Recent 2025 developments include STC offensives challenging government authority and calls for comprehensive reforms in security, economy, and governance. No functioning central legislature or nationwide elections due to conflict.

Government Type

Presidential republic (internationally recognized government amid civil war)

Legal System

Mixed legal system of Islamic law and civil law

Head of State

Chairman of the Presidential Leadership Council Rashad al-Alimi(since 2022)

Head of Government

Prime Minister Salem Saleh bin Braik(General People's Congress)since 2024

Legislature

Type:unicameral
Lower House:House of Representatives (301 seats)

Major Political Parties

General People's Congress(GPC)

Centrist

238 seats
Islah Party(Al-Islah)

Islamist

46 seats

Voting Rights

Yemeni citizens aged 18 and over; elections suspended due to ongoing conflict

Recent Developments

  • Presidential Leadership Council established in April 2022 to replace President Hadi and unify anti-Houthi factions
  • Ongoing reforms discussed in 2025 to restructure PLC membership and decision-making processes
  • Escalation of tensions in December 2025 with Southern Transitional Council advances in Hadramout and Al-Mahra
  • PLC commitments in 2023 to UN-brokered nationwide ceasefire measures
Voting Age18
SuffrageUniversal
Constitution1991
Governorates22