The Movement for the Liberation of Sao Tome and Principe (MLSTP) has announced its intention to form the country's next government. Following the legislative elections on September 27, the party, which secured the most votes, revealed that it will present a proposal for the formation of a new government. The MLSTP maintains open negotiations with other political parties that have parliamentary representation. This development comes as no single party has achieved an absolute majority in the elections.
Américo Barros, president of the MLSTP, made the announcement after a meeting of the party's Political Commission. He emphasized the party's willingness to engage in dialogue with all parties that have seats in parliament. The goal is to find a solution that ensures governability and sustainability for the next executive. Barros stated that the MLSTP is prepared to present a governmental solution based on stability, competence, and addressing the concrete problems faced by the people of Sao Tome and Principe.
The MLSTP leader outlined the party's vision for the composition of the next government, suggesting it should include diverse experiences and competencies. He proposed that the government should comprise personalities from various sectors and political forces willing to participate in governance. According to Barros, the aim is to form a government that prioritizes serving the country and its people. This approach is expected to foster a collaborative and effective governance structure.
The formation of the new executive will follow constitutional procedures. According to the Constitution of Sao Tome and Principe, the President of the Republic has the authority to appoint the Prime Minister, taking into account the results of the elections and after consulting with parties that have parliamentary representation. The remaining members of the government will be appointed and dismissed by the Head of State upon the Prime Minister's proposal.
Américo Barros assured that the commitments made by the MLSTP during the electoral campaign remain valid and will be pursued with determination. These commitments were made to the people and will be treated with seriousness and a strong will to implement them. The party is now awaiting the next steps in the institutional process and the President's call to present its governmental proposal and program to the National Assembly.
In the recent legislative elections, the MLSTP secured 24 out of 55 seats in the National Assembly, making it the leading party. The African Democratic Independence Party (ADI) followed closely with 23 deputies. The MCI-PS/PUN obtained six mandates, and BASTA secured two. These results confirmed the MLSTP's relative majority and a parliament without an absolute majority for any single political force.
The MLSTP's proposal for government formation marks a significant step towards establishing a new executive in Sao Tome and Principe. The party's willingness to engage in dialogue with other political parties reflects its commitment to finding a collaborative solution for the country's governance. As the process unfolds, the country awaits the final composition of the new government and its program.
Key points
- The MLSTP proposes a government of stability, competence, and diverse experiences.
- The party is committed to fulfilling its electoral commitments with determination.
- No single party achieved an absolute majority in the legislative elections.