Cabo Verde's public administration has experienced significant changes in recent years, with 2026 being the most intense period of change. According to data compiled from the Boletim Oficial, 314 movements were published in 101 days, with 93.3 movements per 30 days, more than double the number in 2016 and 2021. This includes 123 departures, compared to 43 in 2016 and 36 in 2021.
The changes in 2026 have been driven largely by the replacement of directors of school clusters and ministerial delegates, with 69 departures, mostly in the Education and Agriculture ministries. However, at the top of the administration, 2026 has not been more aggressive than 2016. Excluding schools and delegations, the ratio of departures to arrivals is 30 departures per 100 entries in 2026, compared to 42 in 2016 and 26 in 2021.
The data also shows that the nature of change varies depending on the government in power. In 2021, there were 104 movements in government offices, accounting for 40% of all movements, and 18 reconductions. In 2016, the focus was on senior officials, institutes, and diplomacy, with 13 movements in embassies and consulates. In 2026, the changes have been more widespread, affecting school principals, local delegates, and security forces.
The use of contracts of management as a form of appointment has increased significantly, from 3 in 2016 to 9 in 2021 and 21 in 2026. This shift towards contracts of management may increase accountability, but also makes appointments more dependent on government decisions. The data also shows that retroactivity is a structural feature of the public administration, with between 56% and 65% of acts producing effects before publication.
The circulation of people within the public administration is limited, with 39 names common to 2016 and 2021, 14 between 2021 and 2026, and only 3 across all three periods. The majority of those who have moved between 2021 and 2026 have done so as departures. The concentration of movements in Santiago remains high, with 79%, 71%, and 63% of movements occurring in the capital.
The data also highlights concerns about transparency and legal security, with widespread retroactivity, delays in publication, and frequent corrections. In 2026, there were 18 records with rectifications, annulments, or republications. These issues undermine the predictability and public control of administrative acts.
The analysis of the data highlights the need for caution when interpreting the results, as the data only describes publications in the Boletim Oficial and does not provide information on motivations or performance evaluations. The period of 2026 is also relatively short, and further data will be needed to fully understand the implications of the changes.
Key points
- The changes in Cabo Verde's public administration in 2026 have been driven largely by the replacement of directors of school clusters and ministerial delegates.
- The use of contracts of management as a form of appointment has increased significantly in recent years.
- The concentration of movements in Santiago remains high, with over 60% of movements occurring in the capital.
