Ulisses Correia e Silva Exits Cape Verdean Politics
Former Cape Verdean Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva has announced his complete withdrawal from active politics. The decision follows the inauguration of a new government led by the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV) and its leader, Francisco Carvalho.
“Now is the time to continue life outside of active politics,” Correia e Silva wrote in a Facebook post on Friday, confirming that he has officially resigned his mandate as a Member of Parliament.
The End of a Decade-Long Era
The move marks the end of a significant chapter in Cape Verdean politics. Correia e Silva served as Prime Minister for ten years, leading the archipelago through two consecutive terms. His departure was precipitated by the legislative elections on May 17, where his party, the Movement for Democracy (MpD), lost its majority to the PAICV.
Following the electoral defeat, Correia e Silva had already stepped down as president of the MpD. The party has since appointed Eurico Monteiro as interim president, with a leadership election scheduled for September 6.
A Shift in Power
The political landscape in Praia has shifted decisively. The PAICV now holds an absolute majority with 37 of the 72 seats in the National Assembly. The MpD has transitioned to the opposition benches with 33 seats, while the Independent and Democratic Cape Verdean Union (UCID) holds the remaining two.
As the new parliament took its seats this week, the MpD announced its new leadership structure. The caucus will be led by Luís Carlos Silva, supported by vice-presidents Damião Medina, Sandra Galina, Lídia Lima, and Liver Gomes.
Correia e Silva’s exit signals a period of transition for the MpD as it seeks to redefine itself in opposition after a decade at the helm of the country.
Image: Pexels – damien Saillet
