Cape Verde Opposition Slams PM-Elect Over Corruption Charges
The Movement for Democracy (MpD) has leveled a sharp critique against Prime Minister-elect Francisco Carvalho, labeling his recent criminal indictment “incompatible” with the nation’s highest office. The opposition party is now calling for a swift political solution within the parliamentary majority to protect Cape Verde’s international reputation.
The controversy follows an indictment filed by the Public Prosecutor’s Office against Carvalho and three former councilors. The charges involve 26 alleged crimes—including corruption, embezzlement, and abuse of power—purportedly committed during Carvalho’s tenure as President of the Praia City Council between 2021 and 2025.
“A Threat to National Credibility”
Speaking after an emergency meeting with President José Maria Neves, interim MpD President Eurico Monteiro expressed deep concern over the cloud hanging over the incoming administration. “The fact that we have a party leader under strong suspicion of committing serious crimes while in public office does not seem compatible with the functions of Prime Minister—especially for a small and vulnerable country like Cape Verde,” Monteiro told reporters in Praia.
While acknowledging Carvalho’s right to defend his innocence, Monteiro argued that the country’s image must not be collateral damage. He noted that since the dawn of Cape Verdean democracy, the government has never faced a crisis of this nature involving its leadership.
Seeking a Parliamentary Solution
Despite the calls for accountability, the MpD clarified it is not challenging the results of the May 17 legislative elections, which saw the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV) secure an absolute majority. Instead, the opposition argues the PAICV must look within its own ranks for a leadership alternative.
“The elections are over, and we fully accept the results,” Monteiro stated. “However, it is a matter of ethics and morals to find a solution within the constitutional framework that protects the interests of the State.”
Grave Allegations and a “Coup” Defense
The Attorney General’s Office (PGR) detailed a sprawling list of charges against Carvalho, ranging from the falsification of public documents and violation of urban planning rules to qualified fraud and defrauding public property interests. The prosecution has requested a trial before the Sotavento Court of Appeal.
Carvalho, for his part, has remained defiant. He dismissed the legal proceedings as an “attempted coup d’état disguised as opposition.” In a public statement, he pledged “absolute respect for justice” and vowed to respond to the charges with “serenity, transparency, and total confidence that the truth will prevail.”
The President’s Role
The MpD is now looking to President José Maria Neves to facilitate a resolution. Monteiro reported that the President is committed to holding a series of talks with various political parties to seek a way forward, though Neves reportedly acknowledged he lacks the “effective instruments” to unilaterally impose a solution.
As the legal battle looms, the MpD maintains that the country’s institutional stability hangs in the balance. “The main victim will always be the country,” Monteiro warned, urging that the credibility of the Republic’s organs not be compromised by the ongoing judicial process.
Image: Pexels – Thuong D
