CPLP Mourns 25 Killed in Cape Verde Fogo Island Tragedy
The Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) has expressed its “deepest sorrow” following a catastrophic road accident on Cape Verde’s Fogo Island that claimed 25 lives. In a statement released Tuesday from its headquarters in Lisbon, the organization offered its condolences to President José Maria Neves and the families of those lost in what has been described as the nation’s worst tragedy since independence.
A Nation in Mourning
The accident occurred on Saturday night when a bus carrying 39 passengers veered off the road in Campanas de Cima, in the municipality of Santa Catarina do Fogo. The vehicle plunged approximately 30 meters down a steep embankment. According to local authorities, 25 people died at the scene or shortly after, while 14 others sustained injuries of varying severity.
“In this hour of national mourning, the CPLP reaffirms its total support and readiness to collaborate with the Cape Verdean authorities in whatever may prove necessary,” the executive secretariat stated. The organization also expressed solidarity with the survivors, wishing them a “speedy and full recovery.”
The “Greatest Tragedy” Since Independence
Cape Verdean Prime Minister Francisco Carvalho on Monday called the incident the “greatest tragedy” recorded in the country’s history as a sovereign nation. The government has declared two days of national mourning and mobilized medical and psychological teams to assist survivors and the grieving community.
The victims were largely young students celebrating the successful completion of their school year. What was meant to be a joyful annual tradition turned into a disaster; reports indicate the trip had been initially postponed, but the students had insisted on proceeding with the celebration.
International Support
The CPLP, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, serves as a vital diplomatic link between Portuguese-speaking nations. Its members include Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique, Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Timor-Leste. The organization’s pledge of support underscores the gravity of the loss for the island nation.
Image: Pexels – David Wilkowski
