Paulo Veiga Leads MpD: A New Vision for Cape Verde Politics
Paulo Veiga, the newly elected president of Cape Verde’s Movement for Democracy (MpD), delivered a message of humility and reform at the opening of the party’s 14th National Convention in Praia. Speaking to delegates on Friday, Veiga warned against responding to recent electoral losses with bitterness, insisting that the party must reconnect with the electorate.
A Call for Humility and Accountability
Addressing the fallout from the MpD’s defeat in the May legislative elections, Veiga acknowledged that many long-term supporters have distanced themselves from the party. He explicitly rejected any internal culture of blame.
“I don’t want a party that is angry with the people, responding to that distance with resentment,” Veiga declared. “Democracy doesn’t work like that. People don’t owe us their support; we are the ones who must earn their trust every day.”
The convention, which runs through Sunday, serves as the formal confirmation of Veiga’s leadership following internal elections a month ago. He urged the party to use the event as a moment of honest self-reflection “without fear, without settling scores, and without convenient excuses.”
Unity After Internal Contests
In a move to bridge internal divides, Veiga extended a hand to those who did not vote for him during the leadership race. He emphasized that the period of campaigning is over and that the party must function as a cohesive “family” once again.
“Democracy within a party is not an inconvenience; it is a strength we must preserve,” he said, calling on members to engage in debate “without destroying” one another.
The Road to Recovery
Veiga outlined a strategy focused on grassroots mobilization, stating that the MpD’s revival will not happen solely through national leadership but must be “rebuilt in every municipality and every community.” His primary goals include reclaiming the MpD’s position as the dominant force in local government and empowering municipal structures.
The convention received messages of support from international allies, including Portugal’s Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the MCI-PS from São Tomé and Príncipe. Former MpD president and current Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva also shared a recorded message expressing his confidence in Veiga’s ability to lead the party back to victory.
Next Steps for the MpD
The weekend’s agenda includes critical discussions on statute revisions and Veiga’s “global strategic motion.” The leader also confirmed that deputy Lúcia Passos is expected to chair the national board. The convention will conclude on Sunday with the election of new national bodies and a formal closing ceremony.
Image: Pexels – Juan Pablo Daniel
