Why did I agree to serve as Youth Representative?

I see José Maria Neves as a figure who has left his mark on Cape Verde’s recent history and who has contributed significantly to the country’s transformation. When I look at the country’s journey, I see changes that lead me to believe in Cape Verde’s potential and in the importance of leadership, vision, and the ability to get things done.

I believe in José Maria Neves because, from my perspective, he is not just a candidate who makes promises, but someone with governance experience and a track record that we can analyze and evaluate. When we see the dams filling with water, for example, we are reminded of the importance of projects, investments, and policies that help transform people’s lives. For me, it is concrete examples like these that reinforce the need to look at the work that has been done and the results that have been achieved.

As President of the Republic, I also recognize the importance of the close relationship that José Maria Neves has sought to maintain with Cape Verdeans, both on the islands and in the diaspora.

I believe he is and continues to be an excellent leader for Cape Verde at a time when the country is navigating a period that requires various state reforms.

His impartiality toward the former MPD government is enviable; he has taken the right stance at all times.

This demonstrates great political maturity; we do not act for the party—we act for Cape Verde.

I identify with the vision of a presidency that seeks to listen, engage in dialogue, build bridges, and represent all citizens, regardless of their political views or where they live.

I believe that a leader must have the ability to learn, recognize challenges, make necessary corrections, and seek solutions to problems. I value leadership that prioritizes dialogue, moderation, and the search for consensus, while respecting institutions and the democratic rule of law.

I also consider José Maria Neves’s political and institutional experience, his ability to engage with different political perspectives, and his international standing to be significant. I believe that representing Cape Verde on the world stage requires knowledge, maturity, a sense of statesmanship, and the ability to promote the identity, culture, talent, and potential of our people.

But my decision is not based solely on the candidate as a person. It is also based on what I consider essential for the future of Cape Verde: unity, participation, and the empowerment of youth.

I accepted this mission because I believe that young Cape Verdeans, both on the islands and in the diaspora, should have a space to express their concerns, present ideas, and actively participate in building the country we desire. As Youth Representative for the island of Brava, I want to help bring young people closer to the national reality, create opportunities for dialogue, listen to the communities, and encourage responsible, conscious, and constructive participation—and above all, defend the interests and concerns of our youth.

I believe in Cape Verde’s potential. I believe in the strength of our youth. And I believe we can achieve more when we are able to combine experience, the energy of the younger generations, and the collective will to build a better future.