Criticism of the inter-island concession with António Varela questioning the silence of the government and the media

Varela, known for his critical positions, but also for his deep love for Cape Verde, did not mince words when describing what he considers to be a "deplorable fiasco". He compared what is happening to a badly staged play, where all the actors - including the government, the media and the experts - applaud the "big premiere" but disappear when the "serious questions" arise.

"The silence from the big players regarding this deplorable Inter Ilhas signing fiasco is deafening - like hearing crickets at night. Where are they? What do they have to say? Where are the answers from the PhDs?" Varela asks in his text, in clear reference to the technicians and experts involved in the process.

António Varela goes further, accusing the government of presenting a "brilliant performance" which, in reality, is nothing more than a "mirage - smoke and mirrors disguised as progress". In his view, this contract, which has been the target of various criticisms for alleged flaws and shortcomings, does not represent the progress that was promised to the population.

He also expresses his frustration at the alleged lack of follow-up by the Cape Verdean press, which, according to him, celebrated the signing of the contract but has not done the work of "analysis, accountability and follow-up" that is required.

"And now, even the Cape Verdean media - the one that was at the forefront, celebrating the opening act - seems to have disappeared. No analysis, no accountability, no follow-up," laments the Bravense.

The emigrant, however, remains hopeful that times will change. In his view, the internet age prevents failures like this from being erased from the collective memory. "It's not the old world anymore," he argues. "We're in the internet age, where every misstep is recorded and can be reviewed."

Varela ends his message with a forceful appeal, asking the population and leaders to stop "accepting empty promises and weak leadership as if it were something normal. Enough is enough."

António Varela's criticisms reflect a growing dissatisfaction on the part of the Cape Verdean diaspora and civil society with the management of maritime transport, a vital sector for the economy and the lives of the archipelago's citizens. It now remains to be seen whether this and other appeals will have any impact on the way the government and CV Interilhas act from now on.

MS