The first 100 days of Francisco Carvalho's government in Cabo Verde have passed, offering initial insights into the administration's methods, priorities, and approach to addressing the country's challenges. The government's multi-ministry initiatives, direct communication, and open dialogue with municipalities, regardless of their political orientation, are seen as positive developments. However, the dialogue needs to translate into concrete decisions, goals, and results. The population expects fewer announcements and more solutions.
The "Cabo Verde para Todos" program prioritizes key social rights, including free access to public higher education and healthcare. These measures have the potential to expand opportunities, but ensuring quality is crucial. The government must guarantee sufficient professionals, equipment, medicine, organization, and service evaluation. The initial 100 days do not allow for a definitive assessment, but they reveal the executive's intentions.
Inherited problems require immediate attention, particularly in security, where issues like "caçubody" necessitate firm, preventive measures close to the communities. Irregular water and energy supplies, as well as urban cleanliness issues, especially in Praia, affect the quality of life and the country's image. Citizens expect concrete solutions, transparent communication, and accountability from competent institutions, involving civil society.
Governance is not solely the government's responsibility; citizens have rights and duties, including demanding quality services, monitoring public resource utilization, participating in democratic life, and preserving collective goods. The question arises: when will resident associations be reactivated, allowing them to collaborate with municipal services? These associations could be vital tools for participation, co-responsibility, and community life improvement.
The coming months will be decisive in transforming commitments into concrete results. The opposition and civil society must exercise critical and constructive oversight, while citizens remain attentive and participatory. Ultimately, trust will be consolidated by the government's ability to fulfill promises, respond promptly and effectively to citizens' needs, and execute and account for its actions.
Cabo Verde requires strong institutions close to the people and a society aware that democracy is built daily through participation, dialogue, and responsible exercise of rights and duties. Citizens' expectations are high, and the government's next steps will be crucial in meeting these expectations. The population is eager to see tangible results and improvements in their daily lives.
As the government continues to implement its agenda, it faces challenges in addressing inherited problems and meeting citizens' expectations. The administration's commitment to transparency, accountability, and citizen participation will be essential in building trust and credibility. The next months will be critical in determining the government's success in fulfilling its promises and improving the lives of Cabo Verde's citizens.
Key points
- The government must translate dialogue into concrete decisions, goals, and results to meet citizens' expectations.
- Inherited problems, such as security and irregular water and energy supplies, require immediate attention.
- Citizen participation and oversight are crucial in building trust and credibility in the government's actions.
