The National Elections Commission (CNE) of Cabo Verde has recommended to the government that the President of the Electoral Registration Commission (CRE) of Portugal be maintained in his position. This recommendation was made to ensure the electoral process currently underway is concluded in a stable climate, with constitutional backing, predictability, and security. The CNE expressed its concern over the imminent replacement of the CRE president, considering the sensitive moment in the electoral process.
According to the CNE, replacing the CRE president introduces constraints and instability in the normal functioning of this commission, especially at this crucial phase of the electoral process. With less than two days to go before the start of the electoral register exhibition, scheduled for September 21, 2026, the commission stressed that the replacement would hinder the process. The CRE president, who was properly trained and capacitated for the role, plays a critical part in the exhibition of electoral registers and the treatment of voter data.
The CNE highlighted that during the exhibition of electoral registers, the CRE presidents perform particularly relevant functions, including monitoring and addressing complaints and other issues raised by voters. Therefore, it is essential to ensure continuity and stability in the work of electoral structures. The commission also noted that the presidential elections of 2026 are scheduled to take place on November 15.
The CNE's recommendation is based on the provisions of the Electoral Code, specifically Article 83/2, which states that the mandate of the members of the Electoral Registration Commissions, including the president, is fully valid until the publication of the definitive results of the elections that occur last in an electoral year with more than one election. The commission unanimously deliberated to express its concern over the decision to replace the CRE president.
The National Elections Commission of Cabo Verde emphasized that replacing the CRE president at this moment in the electoral process does not seem convenient, as it may create additional difficulties for the regular development of electoral activities. The commission's recommendation aims to ensure the smooth continuation of the electoral process.
The CNE's statement was released after the entity took notice of the imminent substitution of the President of the CRE of Portugal. The commission plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and transparency of the electoral process. Its recommendations are aimed at maintaining the stability and credibility of the electoral process.
The Expresso das Ilhas newspaper published the news on September 21, 2026, at 12:59, and it was authored by Dulcina Mendes. The article was edited by António Monteiro at 15:26 on the same day. The National Elections Commission's recommendation has been made public, allowing citizens to engage in the discussion and provide their opinions on the matter.
Key points
- The CNE recommends maintaining the President of Portugal's CRE to ensure stability in the electoral process.
