São Tomé and Príncipe is set to hold elections on Sunday, with voters expressing high hopes for change and better leadership. The small island nation is grappling with the issue of youth emigration, with many young people seeking opportunities abroad. Voters, including student Gelmarisa dos Ramos, emphasize the importance of these elections in choosing a leader who can take the country to the next level. With a focus on job creation and economic growth, voters are looking for a government that can address the country's pressing challenges.
The elections will see around 142,000 voters choose between seven political parties vying for control of the 55-seat National Assembly. In addition to the legislative vote, voters will also participate in municipal elections across São Tomé island and regional elections in Príncipe. Former prime minister Gabriel Da Costa highlighted the challenges facing the country, including labor shortages in sectors such as construction, due to surging emigration. A 2025 World Bank report estimated that nearly 40,000 people, or 18% of the population, live abroad.
Voters, including street vendor Alcina Rita and driver Edilson Gaspar, stress the need for change and better leadership. Rita described the current situation as "chaotic," while Gaspar expressed his desire to see a prime minister from São Tomé and emphasized the importance of exercising his right to vote. The elections are seen as crucial in determining the country's future, with many young people feeling that their voices need to be heard.
The issue of youth emigration is a pressing concern, with many young people feeling that there are limited opportunities at home. Motorcycle taxi drivers Miguel, Ericson, and Nilson discussed the challenges facing young people, with Nilson arguing that investment in new businesses, a new port, and a new airport is essential. The country's economy is suffering from emigration, with labor shortages in key sectors.
All major parties agree that attracting investment is essential to addressing the country's challenges. Foreign minister Ilza Amado Vaz, a candidate from the ruling Independent Democratic Action party, stated that the party's policy is aimed at creating conditions to attract investors. The goal is to reduce the country's dependence on foreign partners, including Portugal, the EU, Brazil, China, and the United States.
Amado Vaz also hopes to expand "high-quality tourism that respects biodiversity" in the island nation, which has earned UNESCO biosphere reserve status. However, the young democracy faces the prospect of a low turnout, with nearly six out of 10 voters staying away from the polls in July's presidential vote. Efforts are being made to encourage voter participation and ensure a smooth electoral process.
The elections will have significant implications for the country's future, with the winner facing the challenge of convincing young people that they can build a future at home. The country's stability and prosperity depend on addressing the pressing issues of emigration and economic growth. Voters are looking for a government that can deliver on its promises and create a brighter future for São Tomé and Príncipe.
Key points
- The elections in São Tomé and Príncipe are seen as crucial in determining the country's future, with voters seeking change and better leadership to address pressing challenges such as emigration and economic growth.
