José Maria Neves Pledges ‘2050 Vision’ in Re-Election Bid
José Maria Neves, the incumbent President of Cape Verde, has unveiled a bold vision for the nation’s future as he seeks a second consecutive term. Speaking at the National Assembly in Praia, Neves announced plans to launch a “Cape Verde 2050” forum—a high-level platform designed to map out the country’s strategic trajectory over the next quarter-century.
A Roadmap for the Next Generation
The proposed forum aims to bring together experts, citizens, and the global diaspora to tackle the archipelagic nation’s most pressing challenges. Neves emphasized that the initiative would focus on creating economic opportunities at home to curb forced emigration, while simultaneously leveraging the immense talent of Cape Verdeans living abroad.
“I plan, upon winning the elections, to hold a ‘Cape Verde 2050’ forum so that we can discuss the country and its future, putting solutions on the table for the various problems facing the islands and the diaspora,” Neves told reporters. He specifically highlighted the need to mobilize diaspora expertise in health and education, mirroring the success Cape Verde has seen in international sports.
In addition to the long-term forum, Neves proposed a national youth convention to bridge the gap between young people at home and abroad, ensuring their “dreams and proposals” are translated into actionable public policy.
Experience as a Bulwark in Turbulent Times
Neves, 66, is leaning heavily on his extensive political resume as the cornerstone of his campaign. Having served three terms as Prime Minister (2001–2016) before winning the presidency in 2021, he argues that his seasoned leadership is essential in an increasingly volatile global landscape.
“The world is very difficult. Cape Verde is facing enormous challenges, and it is fundamental to have a president with experience,” he said, citing his ability to “build bridges” as his defining advantage over his rivals.
Maintaining the ‘Separation of Baskets’
Addressing concerns regarding political balance, Neves—who is supported by the ruling African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV)—pledged to remain a neutral arbiter. He famously used a metaphor of “baskets” to describe the separation of powers between the government, justice, and parliament.
“The president is not part of any of those baskets,” Neves asserted, promising to maintain “balance, impartiality, and autonomy” to ensure that political power is never concentrated in a single direction.
The Road to November 15
Neves entered the 2021 presidency with 51.7% of the vote, defeating Carlos Veiga in the first round. To run for re-election, he has suspended his presidential duties, with National Assembly President Janira Hopffer Almada serving as interim head of state.
The upcoming November 15 election features a crowded field of six candidates, including a historic first: Joana Rosa, the former Minister of Justice, who is the first woman to run for the office with the support of the Movement for Democracy (MpD). Other contenders include Gilson Alves, Casimiro Pina, Antero Tavares, and Loisito Sousa.
Image: Pexels – damien Saillet
