People walk past an electoral banner for Cape Verde president José Maria Neves, ahead of the presidential elections, in Praia, Cape Verde, Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026. -

AP Photo

By Agencies

Last updated: 36 minutes ago

Cape Verde

Cape Verde heads to the polls on Sunday, with incumbent President José Maria Neves favoured to secure a second term in an election seen as another test of the archipelago’s democratic stability.

The Portuguese-speaking island nation, located off the coast of Senegal, is widely regarded as one of Africa’s strongest democracies, standing out in a region increasingly affected by coups and political instability.

Six candidates are contesting the presidency, with Neves facing his main challenger, Joana Rosa Amado, a former justice minister seeking to become the country's first female president.

Beyond the election, Cape Verde is experiencing growing international attention following its national football team's historic World Cup debut and impressive run to the knockout stages.

Tourism is also booming, accounting for around a quarter of the country's economy.

But challenges remain, including rising living costs, youth unemployment, social inequality and the continued emigration of young professionals.

The country is also heavily reliant on its diaspora, whose population abroad is estimated at nearly three times its resident population.

As voters prepare to choose their next president, the key question is whether Cape Verde can maintain its democratic reputation while addressing the economic and social pressures facing its people.

Cape verde presidential election: Neves seeks second term

Suggéré pour vous

Plus d'articles

2027: Tinubu orders security agencies to crack down on political thuggery

Treat all persons with dignity during interrogation &#8211; Mahama charges BNI

Ogun: INEC silent as court orders it to restore Adebutu&#8217;s name within 24hrs

Tinubu booed at Abuja mosque after Friday prayers

NDC to Wike: Stop distracting Nigerians over Obi

Sam Jonah calls on Mahama to restore Gen Acheampong’s military rank, says Ghana must correct injustice of 1979 execution

Discussion

Treat all persons with dignity during interrogation – Mahama charges BNI

Ogun: INEC silent as court orders it to restore Adebutu’s name within 24hrs