Africa-Press – Cape verde. The parliamentary leader of the Movement for Democracy (MpD, power) said today that the 13th of January, “more than a date on the calendar”, is the crowning of a process of reinvention of society and the Cape Verdean soul.Paulo Veiga spoke at the special solemn session celebrating Freedom and Democracy Day, in the City of Praia, which is celebrated on January 13th and which this year marks 33 years since the first multi-party elections held in Cape Verde.
“The 13th of January is much more than a date on the calendar, but rather the crowning of a process of reinvention, a profound and irreversible liberation of the State, society and the Cape Verdean soul”, he explained.
For the leader of the party that supports the Government, this day, which symbolizes “the essence of the Cape Verdean nation”, reaffirms the MpD’s commitment to the principles of republican ethics that support the basis of Cape Verdean society.
Therefore, he recalled, this anniversary symbolizes the end of a one-party regime of more than 15 years and the beginning of an era of freedom, therefore considering it “crucial” to reflect on what it means to be an ethical republic.
“It is nothing more or less than guaranteeing the principles of justice, equality and transparency, and that these are the foundations on which we build our society”, explained Paulo Veiga, adding that it also means cultivating politics where honesty and integrity are valued and rewarded.
“In short, it is the principle that reminds us that the search for collective well-being must be the driving force behind all our policies and initiatives”, he pointed out.
According to Paulo Veiga, in these 33 years of freedom and democracy Cape Verde has witnessed unquestionable progress in the functioning of institutions and the consolidation of the democratic system.
Despite these advances, he stressed, we must be aware of the challenges that the country still faces, but that “with determination and unity” each obstacle will be overcome.
On this Freedom and Democracy Day, the MpD representative considered that the voice of young Cape Verdeans is vital for building a fair and prosperous society, since, as he explained, democracy needs the unique and valuable opinion of young people.
“Participate in elections, get involved in civic and community organizations, political associations, particularly partisan youth and be informed about issues that affect our country”, he indicated.
Paulo Veiga also said that today Cape Verde celebrates not only freedom and democracy, but also a historic victory in the fight against malaria.
“The country stands out not only as a notable example of progress in health, but as a Nation that leads by example, inspiring other countries to embrace excellence in multiple sectors to build a healthier and more democratic future for all”, he concludes.
January 13th is the date on which, for the first time, in 1991, Cape Verdeans exercised their right to vote in the first multi-party elections, after 15 years under a single-party regime.
The first multi-party elections in the archipelago were won by the MpD, the party that returned to power in 2016, after 15 years in opposition and with which the date is most associated.
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