The office was created under the Constitution of 1987; previously, all executive power was held by the president or head of state, who appointed and chaired the Council of Ministers.

The office is currently held by Alix Didier Fils-Aimé who has been serving as acting prime minister since 10 November 2024.

The prime minister enforces the laws and, along with the president, is responsible for national defense.

In addition, the prime minister oversees the National Commission on Government Procurement (CNMP), a decentralized body.

[2] Gérard Latortue served the longest time as prime minister for a total of 1,550 days in office.