Cape Verde opposition reclaims power after 15 years

Cape Verde’s main opposition party claimed an absolute majority in the country’s parliamentary elections.

The Movement for Democracy, led by former mayor of Praia Ulisses Correia e Silva claimed more than 53% of votes ahead of the socialist African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde which had ruled since 2001.

Janira Hopffer Almada, leader of the outgoing government acknowledged his defeat last night.

Out of 72 seats, the Movement for Democracy claimed at least 36 with the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde on 25, according to results with 90% of votes counted.

The Democratic and Independent Cape Verdean Union took three seats.

The results show a “clear desire for change”, Correia e Silva told a press conference.

He promised to work hard to tackle poverty and unemployment and declared the election as a “celebration of democracy” with no losers.