National Assembly (São Tomé and Príncipe) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids National Assembly of São Tomé and Príncipe Assembleia Nacional de São Tomé e Príncipe
Type
Type	Unicameral
Leadership
President	Celmira Sacramento, ADI Since 8 November 2022
Structure
Seats	55 members
Political groups	Government (30)      ADI (30) Opposition (25)      MLSTP/PSD (18)      MCI/PS (5)      Basta (2)
Elections
Voting system	Party-list proportional representation
Last election	25 September 2022
Meeting place
Convention center, São Tomé

The National Assembly (in Portuguese: Assembleia Nacional) is the main law-making body of São Tomé and Príncipe. It is a unicameral body, which means it has only one chamber or house.

The people of São Tomé and Príncipe choose the members of the Assembly in elections. These members serve for a term of four years. The President of the Republic can end the Assembly's term early if there's a very serious problem in the country. However, the President needs approval from a special group called the Council of State first.

History of the National Assembly

The National Assembly was created in 1975. This happened when São Tomé and Príncipe adopted its first Constitution.

From 1975 to 1990, the country had a one-party system. This meant only one political party, the Movement for the Liberation of São Tomé and Príncipe, was in charge. During this time, the Assembly mostly approved what the ruling party decided.

Things changed in 1990. The country made important changes to its Constitution. São Tomé and Príncipe became a multi-party democracy. This meant different political parties could compete in elections. The first fair elections were held in 1991. Since then, the National Assembly has played a much more active role in governing the country.

How Members Are Chosen

Members of the National Assembly are chosen through a system called Party-list proportional representation. This means that people vote for political parties, and the number of seats each party gets in the Assembly depends on the percentage of votes they receive. This system helps make sure that smaller parties can also have a voice in the government.

The most recent election for the National Assembly was held on 25 September 2022.

Leaders of the Assembly

The National Assembly has a leader called the President of the National Assembly. This person is chosen by the members of the Assembly. The President's job is to lead meetings and make sure everything runs smoothly.

Here is a list of the people who have served as President of the Assembly:

Presidents of the Constituent Assembly (1975)

Presidents of the National Assembly (1975–present)

See also

• History of São Tomé and Príncipe
• List of national legislatures
• Legislative Branch