Verified Facts
Cabo Verde is governed as a unitary semi-presidential republic, with a system that combines elements of presidential and parliamentary systems, where the President serves as the head of state and the Prime Minister as the head of government.
Quick Facts
Political System
The government of Cabo Verde is divided into three branches: the executive, legislative, and judicial. The separation of powers is enshrined in the constitution, which ensures that each branch has distinct responsibilities and checks on the others. The President is directly elected by the people and serves as the head of state, while the Prime Minister is appointed by the President and is responsible for overseeing the government. The National Assembly, the country's unicameral legislature, is composed of 72 members who are elected by proportional representation for a five-year term.
The political system in Cabo Verde is characterized by a multi-party system, with several parties represented in the National Assembly. The government has a strong commitment to democracy and human rights, and the country has a reputation for stability and good governance in the region. The constitution also provides for an independent judiciary, which plays a crucial role in ensuring the rule of law and protecting the rights of citizens.
The government of Cabo Verde has implemented various reforms aimed at promoting good governance and transparency, including the creation of an anti-corruption agency and the introduction of laws to regulate campaign finance and access to information. These efforts have contributed to the country's positive reputation and have helped to attract foreign investment and support from international organizations.
Government Structure
| Branch | Institution | Head/Leader | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Executive | Presidency | President José Maria Neves | Head of state, commander-in-chief of the armed forces |
| Executive | Government | Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva | Head of government, responsible for overseeing the government |
| Legislative | National Assembly | Speaker Amilton dos Santos | Unicameral legislature, responsible for making laws |
| Judicial | Supreme Court | President of the Supreme Court | Highest court in the land, responsible for interpreting the constitution and laws |
Major Political Parties
| Party | Position | Leader | Seats | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Movement for Democracy (MpD) | Center-right | Ulisses Correia e Silva | 38 | Ruling party, advocates for economic liberalization and good governance |
| African Party for the Independence of Cabo Verde (PAICV) | Center-left | Janira Hopffer Almada | 30 | Main opposition party, advocates for social justice and economic development |
| Democratic and Independent Cabo Verdean Union (UCID) | Center | António Monteiro | 4 | Advocates for democracy, human rights, and good governance |
| Party for Democratic Convergence (PCD) | Center-left | Eurico Monteiro | 0 | Advocates for social democracy and economic development |
| Democratic Renewal Party (PRD) | Center-right | José Pereira | 0 | Advocates for democratic renewal and good governance |
Elections
- The electoral system in Cabo Verde is based on proportional representation, where voters elect members of the National Assembly from a list of parties.
- Elections are held every five years, with the most recent presidential election taking place in 2021 and the most recent legislative election taking place in 2021.
- The last presidential election saw José Maria Neves elected as President with 51.7% of the vote.
- The next legislative election is scheduled to take place in 2026, with voters set to elect a new National Assembly.
Political Stability & Challenges
- Cabo Verde has a reputation for political stability, with a strong commitment to democracy and human rights.
- The country faces challenges related to poverty, unemployment, and inequality, which can have an impact on social cohesion and stability.
- The government has implemented various policies aimed at promoting economic development and reducing poverty, including investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
- Cabo Verde is also vulnerable to climate change, which can have an impact on the country's agriculture, fisheries, and tourism sectors.
- The country has a high level of freedom, with a strong tradition of democratic governance and respect for human rights.
- Cabo Verde is ranked 39 out of 180 countries in the 2022 Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index, indicating a moderate level of corruption.
Foreign Relations
- Cabo Verde is a member of the United Nations and the African Union, and has diplomatic relations with over 80 countries.
- The country has a strategic partnership with the European Union, which provides significant economic and development support.
- Cabo Verde is also a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which aims to promote economic integration and cooperation in the region.
- The country has a good relationship with its neighbors, including Senegal and The Gambia, and is a member of the West African Monetary Union.
- Cabo Verde has a diplomatic presence in several countries, including Portugal, Brazil, and China, and has a consulate in the United States.