Cape Verde’s Neves begins campaign seeking second term, highlights economic reforms
Cape Verde President Jose Maria Neves began his campaign for a second term on November 2 in Sao Vicente, emphasizing the need for wage increases and economic reforms. Backed by the ruling PAICV party, Neves faces five other candidates, including his main rival Joana Rosa from the MpD. The election is set for November 15.
Brève Publié le (Africa/Lagos, UTC+1)
Cape Verde President Jose Maria Neves officially launched his re-election campaign on November 2 in Sao Vicente, drawing hundreds of supporters who cheered and held signs backing his bid for a second term.
Neves, supported by the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV) which secured a legislative majority in May, stressed the importance of raising salary levels to foster economic growth. “No country grows or competes on the basis of low wages,” he said, calling for significant reforms to improve wages and household incomes.
The presidential election is scheduled for November 15, with six candidates in the race. Neves’ main challenger is former Justice Minister Joana Rosa, endorsed by the Movement for Democracy (MpD).
Cape Verde, an archipelago of about 520,000 people off the West African coast, is noted for its stable democracy since independence from Portugal in 1975 and peaceful elections since 1991. However, the country faces social challenges such as poverty and youth unemployment.