Janira Hopffer Almada: First Female Parliament President CV
In a historic move for Cape Verdean politics, Janira Hopffer Almada has been elected President of the National Assembly. In her inaugural address on June 18, 2026, the 47-year-old leader declared that her victory is not hers alone, but belongs to “all Cape Verdean women” and signifies a tipping point for gender equality in the West African nation.
A Milestone for Equality
“This election belongs to the generations of Cape Verdean women who have fought with dignity, resilience, and determination for equal rights and the opportunity to occupy positions of power through merit,” Almada said. She described her ascent to the presidency of the parliament as a clear signal that Cape Verde is evolving into a more just and inclusive society.
The veteran politician pledged to lead with impartiality, promising to be “the president of all deputies” regardless of party affiliation. She emphasized that her leadership would be guided by the Constitution, which she called her “compass,” and vowed to set an example for future leaders.
Vision for a Modern Parliament
Almada’s agenda prioritizes transparency and institutional reform. She expressed a desire to bring the National Assembly closer to the people, ensuring it becomes a space for constructive dialogue rather than partisan gridlock. “Parliament must be an active voice in responding to the aspirations of Cape Verdeans,” she stated, calling for a unified front on major national issues.
During her speech, Almada also paid tribute to the Prime Minister-designate, Francisco Carvalho, praising his “admirable authenticity” and his vision for the country. Carvalho, in turn, has previously credited Almada for paving his way to the party leadership, highlighting a powerful political partnership within the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV).
A Trailblazing Career
Janira Hopffer Almada is no stranger to breaking barriers. A lawyer by training with degrees from the University of Coimbra, she was the first woman to lead the PAICV and became one of the country’s youngest-ever ministers before the age of 30. During her tenure between 2008 and 2015, she held several high-profile portfolios, including Youth, Employment, and Parliamentary Affairs.
Despite setbacks in the 2016 and 2021 legislative elections, Almada’s return to the political forefront marks a significant shift in Cape Verde’s power dynamics. She succeeds Austelino Correia of the Movement for Democracy (MpD), ending a decade-long cycle of MpD parliamentary leadership and signaling a new chapter for the archipelago’s democracy.
Image: Pexels – damien Saillet
