Francisco Carvalho Vows to Transform Cape Verde in PAICV Campaign
The leader of Cape Verde’s main opposition party, the PAICV, launched his legislative election campaign with a bold message to voters: the party is ready to lead the nation “without excuses.” Francisco Carvalho, the 55-year-old presidential hopeful, declared that his party offers realistic solutions to the country’s most pressing economic and social challenges.
A Vision for a Stronger State
Speaking to a energized crowd in the capital city of Praia on Thursday night, Carvalho emphasized that governance is a task for the capable, not the weak. “One cannot reach the government and make excuses,” he said. “We are strong and prepared to govern Cape Verde. The proposals we have presented are analyzed, thought out, and ready to work.”
A native of Fogo and the current President of the Praia City Council, Carvalho centered his platform on strengthening the role of the state. His key campaign pillars include:
- Education: Establishing free public university education.
- Healthcare: Improving access to medical services for all citizens.
- Logistics: Slashing the high costs of inter-island transportation.
- Economy: Making job creation the “primary project” by cutting red tape and fostering private investment.
Criticism of the Incumbent Government
Carvalho did not hold back in his critique of the ruling Movement for Democracy (MpD). He accused the current administration of failing to meet its goals and hiding behind constant justifications for broken promises.
“They have used ideas of flights and boats to deceive people,” Carvalho told supporters. “It is an obligation of the state to guarantee education and health as mandated by the Constitution. We will fulfill these because Cape Verdeans need them.”
The Path to Power
The PAICV enters this race with significant momentum. The party is looking to capitalize on its sweeping victory in the December 2024 local elections, where it secured 15 of the 22 municipalities. Carvalho himself is riding a wave of local popularity, having won the Praia mayoralty with 62% of the vote before ascending to the party leadership.
The political landscape in Cape Verde has been dominated by the MpD and the PAICV, which have alternated power since 1991. Currently, the MpD holds 38 seats in parliament, while the PAICV holds 30. Minor parties, including the UCID, the Popular Party (PP), and the PTS, are also vying for seats in this election cycle.
The campaign will run until May 15, with political activities scheduled across all islands and the diaspora. According to the National Elections Commission, registered voters have grown by 7% since 2021, with approximately 419,700 citizens eligible to head to the polls. The crucial Santiago electoral district will decide 33 of the 72 parliamentary seats.
“We will work until the 17th,” Carvalho concluded. “From then on, we will build a Cape Verde with dignity for all.”
Image: Pexels – Thomas Schwaak
