Cape Verde President José Maria Neves Launches Re-election Bid
Cape Verdean President José Maria Neves officially launched his bid for a second term on Monday, announcing his candidacy for the upcoming November 15 elections. Speaking at a press conference in the capital city of Praia, the 66-year-old statesman cited a “sense of duty fulfilled” as the driving force behind his re-election campaign.
A Vision for a ‘Winning Country’
Neves, who was first elected to the presidency in 2021, emphasized his commitment to national unity and progress. “I do so with serenity, confidence, and an irrepressible desire for us to continue serving our country together,” he told reporters. He pledged to maintain constitutional loyalty to the new government formed after the May legislative elections, promising to act with “autonomy, impartiality, and balance.”
Addressing the challenges of a rapidly evolving global landscape, Neves highlighted the impact of artificial intelligence on labor and education, as well as the existential threat climate change poses to small island nations like Cape Verde. He also identified the energy transition, an aging population, and the high rate of youth emigration as critical priorities for his next mandate.
Building a National Movement
The President expressed his intent to bridge the gap between the archipelago’s ten islands, noting that geographic distance often results in unequal opportunities. To tackle these issues, Neves is seeking to build a “great national movement.” He confirmed he has already held discussions with various political forces, including the ruling African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV), which he previously led as Prime Minister for 15 years.
In a notable move for his campaign, Neves appointed Mário Lúcio—a renowned singer, composer, and former Minister of Culture—as his national campaign manager.
The Road to November
Following the formal announcement, Neves will immediately suspend his presidential duties in accordance with national law. Janira Hopffer Almada, the Speaker of Parliament, will serve as interim president until the election results are finalized.
Neves faces a significant challenge from Joana Rosa, 61, the former Minister of Justice. Rosa has secured the backing of the Movement for Democracy (MpD), the nation’s current opposition party. With the filing deadline set for Wednesday, September 16, the stage is set for a high-stakes showdown between two of the country’s most prominent political figures.
José Maria Neves brings a long political resume to the race, having served three terms as Prime Minister between 2001 and 2016 before ascending to the presidency. His campaign now rests on the promise of stability and a unified vision for Cape Verde’s future.
Image: Pexels – Antonio Prado
