Cape Verde Pilot Program Helps Disabled Voters Reach Polls
In a major push for electoral inclusion, the National Elections Commission (CNE) of Cape Verde is launching a pilot transport project to help voters with reduced mobility reach polling stations for this Sunday’s legislative elections.
The experiment will debut on May 17 in the capital city of Praia. CNE President Maria do Rosário announced the initiative following the signing of collaboration protocols with community associations and disability rights advocacy groups. “We will conduct a pilot experiment to evaluate the process and understand what needs to be improved before implementing the measure at a national level,” Rosário stated.
The transport initiative falls under the “Accessible Vote” program, which began in 2019. Previous efforts under this program include the introduction of Braille stencils at polling stations and electoral information provided in sign language. Despite these strides, Rosário emphasized that many citizens still face physical barriers that restrict their political rights.
Ensuring Transparency and Neutrality
To address potential concerns regarding voter influence, the CNE confirmed that political parties will monitor the transport process. This oversight is intended to ensure that no voter faces pressure during transit, maintaining the total transparency and integrity of the vote.
While advocates have praised the move, Rosário acknowledged that the measure is “far from ideal.” She noted that the CNE eventually hopes to implement home voting, though such a change would require future legislative reform.
Teresa Mascarenhas, president of Acarinhar (an association for families of children with cerebral palsy), hailed the project as a concrete step toward “eliminating barriers.” Marciano Monteiro, president of the Association of the Visually Impaired (Adevic), added that the initiative is vital for ensuring the full exercise of citizenship for the country’s estimated 47,000 people living with disabilities.
A High-Stakes Election
The accessibility push comes as Cape Verde prepares for a high-stakes legislative contest. Approximately 420,000 voters are registered for Sunday’s election, a 7% increase since 2021.
The political landscape is dominated by two main forces: the ruling Movement for Democracy (MpD) and the opposition African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV). Both parties are fielding candidates in all 13 electoral districts. Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva (MpD) is seeking a third consecutive term, challenged by PAICV leader and Praia Mayor Francisco Carvalho.
The Democratic and Independent Cape Verdean Union (UCID), the nation’s third-largest party, is competing in 10 districts and could hold the balance of power if neither major party secures an absolute majority. Two smaller parties, the People’s Party and the Labour and Solidarity Party, are also contesting seats in six districts each.
Image: Pexels – Edmond Dantès
