Cape Verde President Neves Seeks Re-election Amid Inflation
Cape Verdean President José Maria Neves is officially launching his bid for a second term this Sunday, centering his campaign on the economic anxieties of his citizens. In an exclusive interview with Lusa, the 66-year-old incumbent signaled that the soaring cost of living and chronic inter-island transport issues will be the pillars of his re-election platform.
Addressing the ‘Kitchen Table’ Economy
While the presidency in Cape Verde is a largely ceremonial role without direct executive power over the budget, Neves emphasized his role as a catalyst for change. He identified rising fuel prices as a primary threat to the nation’s stability, noting that the ripple effects are being felt everywhere from small businesses and farms to the dinner tables of average families.
“It is important for the President of the Republic to keep a close eye on these issues—to provoke debates and inspire solutions that can lead to measures to mitigate the effects of this exponential increase,” Neves said.
Connecting an Archipelago
Beyond inflation, Neves is focusing on the logistical challenges of an island nation. He described internal transport connectivity as “fundamental” to the country’s future, arguing that resolving these bottlenecks is the only way to achieve territorial cohesion, economic growth, and better wages for workers.
“We need to accelerate the pace of transformation,” Neves insisted. “We need deep reforms in social security, education, health, and public administration.”
A High-Stakes Race
Neves, who served as Prime Minister for 15 years before ascending to the presidency in 2021, is backed by the ruling African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV). He faces a field of five challengers, most notably Joana Rosa, a former minister supported by the opposition Movement for Democracy (MpD).
The ballot also includes judge Antero Tavares, jurist Casimiro Pina, doctor Gilson Alves, and teacher Loisito Sousa. Despite the competition, Neves expressed confidence in a decisive victory. “I hope to win in the first round with the necessary majority so that I can have strong legitimacy to face today’s challenges,” he said.
Diplomatic Continuity
On the international front, Neves highlighted the “excellent” relationship between Cape Verde and Portugal, describing it as a global reference for post-colonial cooperation. He pledged to further deepen ties in finance, science, and health, noting that the density of the relationship requires “special attention” from the Head of State.
History is on Neves’ side: every president in Cape Verde’s democratic history who has sought a second term has successfully secured it. In 2021, Neves won his first term in a single round with 51.8% of the vote.
Image: Pexels – Mikhail Nilov
