President Carlos Vila Nova Sworn In for Second Term
On Thursday, Carlos Vila Nova took the oath of office for a second five‑year term as President of São Tomé and Príncipe. The ceremony was held in the National Assembly chamber in the capital, São Tomé, and was attended by several regional leaders and diplomats.
Ceremony Details and International Presence
The inauguration followed the constitutional requirement that the president be sworn in before the National Assembly. Vila Nova placed his hand on the constitution and pledged to uphold the nation’s laws and democratic principles.
Among the guests were:
- President Ali Bongo Ondimba of Gabon
- President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo
- Prime Minister António Costa of Portugal
- Prime Minister Adriano Maleiane of Mozambique
Their presence underscored the country’s diplomatic ties with both African partners and former colonial powers, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Electoral Context and Voter Turnout
Vila Nova secured re‑election in the first round of the presidential election held in July, capturing just over 55 % of the valid votes. His closest challenger, Nito Abreu—a member of parliament backed by former prime minister Patrice Trovoada—received approximately 38 % of the vote.
Official figures from the São Tomé and Príncipe Electoral Commission show that abstention reached 59 %, marking the lowest voter turnout in the nation’s recent electoral history. Analysts from the African Development Bank noted that the high abstention rate reflects both voter apathy and logistical challenges faced by residents of the archipelago’s more remote islands.
Political System and Upcoming Legislative Elections
Although the president serves as the head of state, executive authority in São Tomé and Príncipe rests primarily with the prime minister and the Council of Ministers. The president’s duties are largely ceremonial, including representing the nation abroad and promulgating laws passed by the National Assembly.
The next step in the country’s political calendar is the legislative election scheduled for 27 September. Voters will choose the 55 members of the National Assembly, whose composition will determine who is appointed prime minister. Political parties such as the Independent Democratic Action (ADI) and the Movement for the Liberation of São Tomé and Príncipe/Social Democratic Party (MLSTP/PSD) are expected to contest the race vigorously.
Observers from the European Union Election Observation Mission have announced plans to monitor the September vote, citing the importance of a credible legislative process for the nation’s democratic consolidation.
