Cape Verde PM Slams for Dual Finance Role & Lack of Diversity
Cape Verde’s main opposition party, the Movement for Democracy (MpD), has voiced sharp criticism against the newly inaugurated government, targeting Prime Minister Francisco Carvalho’s decision to personally manage the country’s finances and the “poor” representation of women in his cabinet.
Concerns Over Economic Stability
In a statement released Monday, the MpD expressed deep reservations about Francisco Carvalho’s dual role. The Prime Minister, who represents the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV) following their May 17 election victory, was sworn in by President José Maria Neves on Friday. However, his decision to simultaneously serve as Finance Minister has raised alarms within the opposition.
“We cannot fail to express our reservations regarding the structure presented,” the MpD stated. The party argued that the Ministry of Finance is “the engine of the system” and requires an intensity of effort and technical complexity that may be incompatible with the broad responsibilities of leading the country.
The opposition warned that such a move is a “very risky proposal” that could damage investor confidence and international partnerships. “It does not seem to us that this role is compatible with that of coordinating and directing all government activity,” the statement concluded.
Prime Minister Defends the Move
Prime Minister Carvalho has dismissed these concerns, framing the decision as a strategic necessity. Speaking to journalists following his inauguration, Carvalho justified holding the portfolio as a way to “ensure that the major priorities will continue to be the major priorities.”
He emphasized that his direct oversight would ensure the government remains aligned with the promises made during the electoral campaign and responds directly to the needs of Cape Verdean society as identified by his party.
A Step Backward for Gender Equality?
Beyond economic management, the MpD took aim at the demographic makeup of the new executive, claiming that women are “very poorly represented numerically.”
The current cabinet consists of 18 members—including 15 ministers and three secretaries of state—but features only two female ministers and one female secretary of state. This marks a decrease from the outgoing MpD administration, which, though larger with 22 members, included two ministers and two secretaries of state.
As the new PAICV government begins its term, these two issues—fiscal oversight and gender parity—are set to remain at the forefront of the political debate in Praia.
Image: Pexels – damien Saillet
