The political system of Cabo Verde combines national state institutions with local self-government in 22 municipalities across 10 islands. National powers are exercised by the President, the Assembleia Nacional, the Government and the courts. Public administration, taxation, justice, security and public services operate within this constitutional framework. Elections determine who holds several public offices. Presidential elections choose the President through a majority system. Legislative elections choose members of the Assembleia Nacional through party lists and D’Hondt seat allocation. Municipal elections choose local authorities through two ballots. Citizens aged 18 or older who are registered can vote in national elections, while municipal voting also includes certain legally resident foreign and stateless residents. The distinction between state organization and elections helps explain how authority works. State institutions exercise public powers and deliver services, while elections provide the procedures for selecting national and municipal representatives. The constitutional system therefore connects national decision-making with local management of municipal matters.
Politics in Cabo Verde
Politics in Cabo Verde covers how the state is organized and how public authorities are chosen. The country is a sovereign, unitary and democratic republic governed by its Constitution and the rule of law. Political authority operates through national institutions, municipalities and separate presidential, legislative and municipal elections.
Tip
Use the national–municipal distinction to identify which level of Cabo Verde’s political system applies to your question or decision. When assessing an election, first identify the office being chosen and the voting method, then check the eligibility conditions that apply to that election.