A February 1996 presidential election returned President Mascarenhas Monteiro to office. The December 1995 and February 1996 elections were judged free and fair by domestic and international observers. The constitution first approved in 1980 and substantially revised in 1992 forms the basis of government organization. The Prime Minister is the head of the government and as such proposes other ministers and secretaries of state. The Prime Minister is nominated by the National Assembly and appointed by the President.
Separate courts hear civil and criminal cases.
Appeal to the Supreme Court is possible. The MpD was returned to power with a larger majority in the general elections held in December 1995. Fish and shellfish are plentiful, and small quantities are exported. Cape Verde has cold storage and freezing facilities as well as fish processing plants in Mindelo, Praia, and on Sal. Ship repair facilities at Mindelo were opened in 1983, and the harbors at Mindelo and Praia were recently renovated.