PAICV Wins Absolute Majority in Cape Verde Elections
PRAIA, Cape Verde – The African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV) has secured a decisive victory in the national elections, claiming an absolute majority that signals a major shift in the country’s political landscape. Party leader Francisco Carvalho declared victory early Monday morning, stating that voters have sent a “clear message” that the time for new leadership has arrived.
A Mandate for Change
Speaking from the PAICV headquarters in Praia at 00:15 local time, Carvalho confirmed that final results from the diaspora in the Americas solidified the party\’s absolute majority. He framed the win as a validation of a project built specifically to address the daily struggles of Cape Verdeans.
“Cape Verdeans have spoken clearly,” Carvalho told supporters. “The time has come to change the way this country is managed.”
Ambitious Reform Agenda
Carvalho wasted no time in reaffirming the party’s core campaign promises, which center on drastically reducing the cost of living and increasing access to essential services. Key initiatives include:
- Education and Health: Free access to public universities and healthcare services.
- Inter-Island Travel: Domestic boat trips capped at 500 escudos (€4.53) and domestic flights fixed at 5,000 escudos (€45.35) to boost connectivity across the archipelago.
While pledging to deliver on these goals, Carvalho noted that certain systemic reforms may face hurdles. “You can expect everything we promised, with the exception of items requiring constitutional amendments, as the Movement for Democracy (MpD) is unlikely to collaborate on those,” he cautioned.
Diplomacy and Foreign Relations
The incoming leader emphasized continuity and growth in Cape Verde’s international partnerships, particularly with Portugal. Describing the current relationship as “extraordinary,” Carvalho expressed confidence that the bond would strengthen under his administration.
“Portugal has been a great partner, and it will surely continue to be—I would even say it will be even more so,” he noted, promising a government characterized by “responsibility and a sense of state.”
Allegations of Voter Irregularities
Despite the victory, Carvalho used his speech to launch a scathing critique of the electoral process and the outgoing MpD government. He accused the opposition of “buying consciences” on the eve of the vote by distributing groceries and opening bank branches specifically to influence voters.
Carvalho slammed the National Elections Commission (CNE) and the Attorney General’s Office for what he called “inaction” regarding these allegations. He vowed to move the country away from what he described as a “facade democracy” and toward a system that addresses “the real Cape Verde.”
MpD Leadership Resigns
The landslide result has already triggered a leadership crisis within the outgoing government. Before Carvalho’s victory speech, Ulisses Correia e Silva, president of the MpD, officially conceded defeat. In addition to congratulating the PAICV leader, Correia e Silva announced his resignation from his party’s leadership, marking the end of an era for the MpD.
Image: Pexels – damien Saillet
