Cape Verde election could make history with first female president

Cape Verde is holding presidential elections that could make history by producing the country’s first female head of state since gaining independence from Portugal in 1975.
Former Justice Minister Joana Rosa is challenging incumbent President Jose Maria Neves, who is seeking a second term. Six candidates are contesting the election, with a second round scheduled for November 29 if no candidate secures more than 50 per cent of the vote.
Rosa, representing the opposition Movement for Democracy, is the first woman to contest the presidency in the island nation’s history. Although women have held senior government positions, Cape Verde has never had a female president or prime minister.
The election comes at a significant political moment for the West African island country, which has a population of around half a million. Cape Verde is known for its competitive elections and peaceful transfers of power, making it an exception in a region that has experienced political instability.
The country’s political system gives the prime minister most executive powers, while the president performs a largely ceremonial role. However, the directly elected head of state retains important constitutional powers, including the authority to veto legislation.
Rosa has focused her campaign on maintaining a balance of power between the presidency and government. She argues that the country needs an independent counterweight to the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV), which currently controls the government and most municipalities.
PAICV secured a parliamentary majority in May, ending a decade of government led by the Movement for Democracy. A victory for Rosa would place the presidency and government under rival political leadership.
Meanwhile, Neves, who won the 2021 presidential election with approximately 52 per cent of the vote, has promised to build political consensus and address key public concerns. His campaign has focused on improving housing, healthcare and education, creating employment opportunities and increasing wages.
Economic challenges and limited opportunities have also emerged as important election issues, particularly among younger citizens seeking better prospects abroad.
Political observers say many voters want a president who understands their everyday difficulties. Nearly 77,000 Cape Verdeans living overseas are registered to vote, representing almost one-fifth of the electorate.
Rosa’s candidacy has also brought greater attention to women’s political representation in a society where traditional gender roles remain influential. However, some local observers argue that voters are more concerned about political affiliations and policies than the gender of presidential candidates.
The election is being closely watched as a potential milestone for women’s political representation in Cape Verde, with its outcome set to shape the country’s political landscape.