Cape Verde Elections: MpD Unveils ‘Growth into Income’ Plan
The Movement for Democracy (MpD) unveiled its roadmap for Cape Verde’s future on Friday, launching an electoral program that centers on “transforming economic growth into household income.” Heading into the May 17 legislative elections, Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva is seeking a third term with a promise to make the nation’s macroeconomic stability tangible for every citizen.
The “Cape Verde Forward” program, presented to the press in the capital city of Praia, aims to bridge the gap between national statistics and the daily reality of families. “Today, Cape Verde is stronger, but Cape Verdeans are, rightfully, more demanding,” the program summary states. “The next stage requires a new ambition: to transform growth into income, stability into opportunities, and progress into quality of life.”
Ambitious Economic Targets
Refuting critics who argue that GDP growth has failed to reach the pockets of ordinary citizens, Correia e Silva pointed to the recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic as proof of his administration’s resilience. To further this momentum, the MpD has set several high-stakes financial goals for the upcoming legislative term:
- Wage Increases: A plan to hike the average salary by approximately 30%.
- Minimum Wage: Raising the national minimum wage to 25,000 escudos (€226.73).
- Tax Reform: Gradually reducing corporate income tax (IRPC) to 15% by 2031 to stimulate investment.
- Economic Growth: Consistently achieving annual growth of over 7% to elevate Cape Verde to high-income country status.
In 2025, the World Bank officially reclassified Cape Verde as an upper-middle-income country, a milestone Correia e Silva says justifies a “mandate to consolidate” recent gains.
Social Welfare and New Industries
Beyond the economy, the MpD is eyeing the demographic shifts expected over the next 15 years. Recognizing that Cape Verde is transitioning into an aging society, the party plans to formalize the profession of “caregiver” to support the elderly and those with disabilities, creating a new sector for employment in the process.
The program also highlights “Smart Agriculture”—utilizing technology to improve water and energy access—and the creation of a dedicated business development bank to support local entrepreneurs.
The Stakes of May 17
Addressing supporters, Correia e Silva warned against the rise of “populism,” calling democracy the country’s “greatest asset” and urging voters to reject divisive political trends.
The MpD currently holds a majority with 38 of the 72 seats in the National Assembly. It faces its traditional rival, the PAICV (30 seats), and the UCID (4 seats), which is campaigning to end the era of absolute majorities. Two smaller parties, the People’s Party (PP) and the PTS, are also competing in several districts.
With approximately 419,700 registered voters—a 7% increase from 2021—the May 17 election will decide whether Cape Verde continues under the MpD’s decade-long direction or shifts toward a new political cycle.
Image: Pexels – Thomas Schwaak
