Cape Verde Sets Sept 16 Deadline for Presidential Candidates
Cape Verde has officially entered the countdown to its presidential elections. Candidates seeking to lead the Atlantic archipelago must submit their official bids to the Constitutional Court by September 16, according to the electoral calendar released today by the National Elections Commission (CNE).
The deadline falls exactly 60 days before the nationwide vote, scheduled for November 15. This election marks the conclusion of a significant political cycle for the nation, following municipal elections in late 2024 and legislative elections held this past May.
Key Dates and Deadlines
Once the September 16 deadline passes, the Constitutional Court will move quickly to organize the ballot. A draw to determine the order of candidates on the ballot papers is scheduled for September 17. The Court expects to finalize and admit all valid candidacies by September 21, allowing a brief window for representatives to correct any paperwork irregularities.
Voter registration will be suspended from September 11 until the election concludes. Should no candidate secure an absolute majority, a second-round runoff will take place between 20 and 25 days before the current presidential term ends.
Strict Rules on Campaigning and Public Spending
Cape Verdean law imposes strict neutrality during the election season. Effective immediately, all forms of direct or indirect political advertising through commercial media are prohibited. Furthermore, starting September 16, public officials are banned from approving subsidies, donations, or sponsorships to private individuals. Government officials are also barred from holding high-profile ceremonies, such as laying foundation stones or inaugurating new public works, to prevent the use of state resources for political gain.
The official campaign period is set to run from October 29 to November 13. This will be followed by a “day of reflection” on November 14, during which all campaigning must cease to allow voters to make their final decisions in peace.
The Stakes
The upcoming vote will determine the successor or the continuation of the mandate currently held by President José Maria Neves. In the last election held in October 2021, Neves secured a first-round victory with 51.7% of the vote, defeating his primary challenger, Carlos Veiga. Neves was sworn into his five-year term on November 9, 2021.
The CNE is expected to finalize the locations for polling stations across the islands and for the Cape Verdean diaspora abroad by late October, ensuring that more than half a million citizens have the opportunity to cast their ballots.
Image: Pexels – Thuong D
