Loisito Sousa: The Independent Teacher Eyes Cape Verde Presidency
Loisito Sousa, a 40-year-old history teacher and political outsider, is campaigning to become Cape Verde’s next president on a platform of radical inclusion. Standing at a viewpoint overlooking the rugged, underserved neighborhoods of Praia—where many families still live without running water or electricity—Sousa told Lusa that his mission is to give “voice to those who have no voice.”
A Candidate from the Classroom to the Streets
A native of Tarrafal with nearly two decades of experience teaching social sciences, Sousa frames his candidacy as a testament to resilience. “I am a real-life story of persistence,” he said. “I want to prove to Cape Verdeans that it is possible to dream big, even when living in neighborhoods facing immense hardship.”
Sousa is one of six candidates competing in the November 15 election. He distinguishes himself by running outside the traditional party apparatus, which he argues has become disconnected from the public. “The President must be an independent personality,” Sousa emphasized, criticizing rivals whose campaigns are “built on party machinery” rather than organic social movements.
The ‘Magistracy of Influence’
While the Cape Verdean presidency is largely ceremonial, Sousa insists the role carries significant weight through what he calls the “magistracy of influence.” Though the president does not legislate or govern directly, Sousa believes the head of state holds the “moral responsibility” to act as a compass for the nation.
“Anyone who thinks a President has no power is mistaken,” he said. “This influence should serve to show the horizon to those leading the country, putting the interests of the people above the masters of power.”
A New Global Paradigm
Sousa’s vision extends beyond domestic social issues. He is calling for a shift in how Cape Verde relates to the international community, specifically advocating for a rejection of “neocolonialism.” He argues that the archipelago must set its own priorities rather than being stifled by external interests.
“Democracy must reach people on their plates, in their housing, with more security and more happiness,” he stated. While he describes the relationship with Portugal as a “historic bond of friendship” that must be nurtured, he believes Cape Verde should transition from a “spectator” to a “leading actor” on the global stage.
The Race for the Presidency
Sousa faces a crowded field and a historical precedent that favors the incumbent. The ballot includes:
- Antero Tavares: A judge.
- Casimiro Pina: A jurist.
- José Maria Neves: The current President, seeking a second term with the support of the ruling PAICV.
- Gilson Alves: A doctor.
- Joana Rosa: A former minister supported by the opposition MpD.
- Loisito Sousa: Independent teacher and activist.
Incumbent José Maria Neves won the 2021 election in the first round with 51.8% of the vote. History is on his side: every president in Cape Verde’s democratic era who has sought a second term has been successfully re-elected. Sousa, however, remains undeterred, urging his fellow citizens to look past their circumstances. “The important thing is to dream. Dream big, work hard, and we can get there.”
Image: Pexels – Piotrek Wilk
