Re-elected on December 1, 2024, with over 25,000 votes, Francisco Carvalho has announced his candidacy for the presidency of Cape Verde’s African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV). The Mayor of Praia declared his intention to lead the party with an inclusive and forward-looking vision, emphasizing modernization while honoring the party’s historic ideals.
“I present myself as a candidate for PAICV’s presidency to promote participatory leadership that respects our legacy and embraces the modernity demanded by the future,” Carvalho announced on Facebook, on January 2.
Highlighting his deep ties to PAICV, he expressed pride in its role in achieving independence and democracy, noting his experience as a sociologist, public servant, and mayor. Carvalho pledged to focus on creating opportunities in income, employment, health, and education, stating, “Cape Verde needs everyone.”
Carvalho also called for members’ support to make PAICV more dynamic and reflective of national progress. His leadership bid comes after PAICV’s historic municipal election victory, increasing its control from eight to 15 municipalities, while the rival MpD dropped from 14 to seven. In Praia, Carvalho defeated MpD’s Abraão Vicente, widening his lead by approximately 10,000 votes.
The party’s national council will meet on January 4–5 to set the date for the presidential election, the next congress, and the number of delegates. Meanwhile, PAICV Vice-President Nuias Silva has expressed interest in leading the party if current president Rui Semedo steps down.