On November 11, 2026, the President of Sao Tome and Principe invited the Movement for the Liberation of Sao Tome and Principe (MLSTP) to nominate a prime minister within 24 hours. The MLSTP won the recent elections without an absolute majority. The President requires written confirmation of the nominee, along with evidence of parliamentary support to ensure the government's program and functions can be carried out effectively.
According to the Presidential publication, the President emphasized the importance of this procedure to safeguard national interest, respect democratic principles, and promote political stability. The President's invitation comes as the XIX Constitutional Government continues to serve in an acting capacity until a new prime minister is appointed. Their activities are limited to essential tasks for current governance and ordinary administration.
The MLSTP, led by Américo Barros, secured 24 seats in the legislative elections held on September 27, 2026. They have been claiming the right to form the next government. The new legislative term began on November 11, marking the end of the previous government's term. The President's request for written confirmation and evidence of parliamentary support aims to ensure a stable government.
The President's move is seen as a crucial step towards establishing a stable government in Sao Tome and Principe. The country's democratic institutions rely on the separation of powers and checks on authority. By requiring evidence of parliamentary support, the President aims to prevent potential instability or gridlock in the government.
The MLSTP's nomination for prime minister must be submitted in writing within 24 hours, accompanied by documents demonstrating sufficient political support in the National Assembly. This support is necessary to ensure the government's program can be implemented and its functions carried out effectively. The President's request reflects the need for a stable and functional government.
Sao Tome and Principe has a history of fragile governments, and the President's move is seen as an effort to prevent similar instability. The country's economy and development prospects rely on a stable and effective government. The President's invitation to the MLSTP is a step towards achieving this goal.
The nomination process is expected to conclude with the appointment of a new prime minister, marking a significant development in Sao Tome and Principe's politics. The country's future prospects depend on the stability and effectiveness of its government.
Key points
- The President requires written confirmation of the MLSTP's nominee for prime minister, along with evidence of parliamentary support.
