Joana Rosa Vies for History as Cape Verde’s First Female President
PRAIA, Cape Verde — Joana Rosa is aiming to make history this Sunday as she seeks to become the first female President of Cape Verde. In an interview with Lusa, the former Minister of Justice outlined a bold vision to elevate the archipelago’s international standing and breathe new life into the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP).
Revitalizing the Lusophone Alliance
A central pillar of Rosa’s platform is the reinvigoration of the CPLP. Pointing to the 2021 Mobility Agreement, which she helped facilitate during her tenure in government, Rosa warned that the organization cannot be allowed to stagnate.
“The CPLP cannot be allowed to die,” the 61-year-old candidate said. “The objectives underlying the community must be reinvigorated. It will be up to the Cape Verdean head of state to take that initiative.”
Rosa believes the community should be more than a cultural bond; it should be a geopolitical force. She aims to champion the “languages, peoples, and cultures” of the member states so the bloc can tackle common challenges and act as a unified voice on the global stage.
A Diplomatic Voice with Principles
While acknowledging that the government conducts foreign policy, Rosa emphasized that the President plays a vital representative role. She argued that Cape Verde must use its reputation as a stable democracy to exert influence.
“We cannot be on good terms with everyone and not have an opinion,” Rosa stated, stressing that the country must consistently condemn actions that jeopardize the self-determination of peoples. “We are well-regarded for our judicial independence, low corruption, and press freedom. The President must project this image abroad.”
Independence Over Partisanship
Despite being backed by the opposition Movement for Democracy (MpD), Rosa promised to lead with fierce independence. She vowed not to be an “adversary” to the current government, led by the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV).
“I will exercise the presidency in an independent manner, without being subject to the whims of political parties,” she said. “The President is the guardian of the Constitution. If they fail in that, they lose authority and respect.”
Strengthening Ties with Portugal and the Diaspora
Rosa also signaled a desire to deepen the relationship with Portugal, specifically focusing on the Cape Verdean diaspora. She expressed a need for better integration for young Cape Verdeans living in Portugal, promising to use her office to initiate high-level dialogues with Portuguese leaders on their behalf.
The Path to the Polls
Rosa is one of six candidates appearing on Sunday’s ballot. She faces a significant challenge in incumbent President José Maria Neves, who won in the first round in 2021 with 51.8% of the vote. Historically, every Cape Verdean president who has sought a second term has been re-elected.
However, Rosa remains confident, stating she hopes to win in the first round. She urged voters to judge her on her merits and her track record at the Ministry of Justice, rather than just the historic nature of her candidacy.
The field of candidates includes:
- José Maria Neves: Incumbent President (PAICV)
- Joana Rosa: Former Minister of Justice (MpD)
- Antero Tavares: Judge
- Casimiro Pina: Jurist
- Gilson Alves: Physician
- Loisito Sousa
Image: Pexels – damien Saillet
