Vila Nova Sworn in for Second Term as São Tomé President

Carlos Vila Nova was sworn in for a second five-year term as President of São Tomé and Príncipe in a ceremony attended by several African and international leaders, including the presidents of Gabon and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the prime ministers of Portugal and Mozambique. Vila Nova, who first assumed the presidency in 2021 with the support of the centre-right Independent Democratic Action party, was re-elected in the first round of the presidential election held in July, securing more than 55% of the votes.

His main rival, Nito Abreu, a member of parliament backed by former Prime Minister Patrice Trovoada, did not succeed. Voter turnout for the election was notably low, with 59% of voters abstaining.

In São Tomé and Príncipe, the president's role is largely ceremonial, with most executive powers held by the prime minister. The next head of government will be determined by legislative elections scheduled for September 27.