Africa-Press – Cape verde. MpD Vice-President Fernando Elísio Freire reaffirmed on Saturday in São Filipe the party’s commitment to the development of Cabo Verde and the island of Fogo, expressing confidence in a victory in the legislative elections scheduled for this coming May 17.
During the presentation of the list of candidates for the Fogo electoral district—headed by Filipe Santos—the party official called for continuity, highlighting the progress achieved over the last ten years.
Fernando Elísio Freire stated that the objective is “an inclusive Cabo Verde that respects its citizens,” emphasizing that the island of Fogo has successfully overcome challenges such as the volcanic eruption and the pandemic.
The official pointed to economic growth and reductions in unemployment and poverty, arguing that the island “continues to move forward” under the leadership of the MpD and Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva.
He also highlighted investments in agriculture, education, healthcare, housing, and infrastructure, as well as improvements in mobility, the road network, and access to basic services.
He likewise noted gains for various professional groups—such as teachers, healthcare professionals, and National Police officers—viewing these as indicators of development.
During his speech, the official urged voters to cast their ballots for the party in the May 17 elections, arguing that the choice facing the electorate centers on maintaining the continuity of current policies.
For his part, the lead candidate for the Fogo electoral district, Filipe Santos, stated that the candidacy represents a “renewed commitment” to both the island and the country.
The candidate described the ticket as “strong, young, inclusive, and representative,” bringing together a blend of experience and fresh ideas.
Filipe Santos highlighted the government’s performance in adverse contexts—such as droughts and the pandemic—arguing that, despite these difficulties, the country achieved economic growth as well as reductions in poverty and unemployment.
The candidate warned against what he characterized as “unrealistic promises,” advocating instead for the necessity of stability and continuity. He further enumerated investments on the island—specifically in the urban redevelopment of São Filipe, the construction and rehabilitation of social housing, and improvements in the health and transport sectors—while acknowledging, however, the existence of unresolved challenges.
Meanwhile, the MpD’s campaign manager, Jorge Nogueira, highlighted the composition of the party list, stating that it comprises individuals with strong ties to the community who are committed to the island’s development.
The official expressed confidence in the party’s victory, setting a target of electing three of the five deputies representing the Fogo electoral district.
The parliamentary elections are scheduled for May 17.
In the legislative elections on May 17, five political parties—PAICV, MpD, UCID, PTS, and PP—are vying for 72 parliamentary seats, distributed across 13 electoral districts: ten within the national territory and three in the diaspora.
The most recent legislative elections in Cabo Verde took place on April 18, 2021, in which the Movement for Democracy (MpD) secured an absolute majority, electing 38 deputies—compared to 30 for the PAICV and four for the UCID.
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