Carlos Vila Nova won re-election as president of São Tomé and Príncipe with 55.88% of the vote in the first round, a result confirmed by the Constitutional Court. Nito d'Abreu, backed by the ADI after a party split, secured 41.47%, while turnout was about 40%. The vote unfolded amid a government crisis and economic strain, and highlights the islands' growing strategic importance to the EU, the US and Russia due to nearby oil prospects and Atlantic routes.
Carlos Vila Nova Re-Elected President Of São Tomé And Príncipe In First-Round Victory
FILE PHOTO - São Tomé and Príncipe's President Carlos Vila Nova arrives for the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) at the Scottish Event Campus (SEC). (is associated with: «President of São Tomé and Príncipe re-elected for second term») Phil Noble/PA Wire/dpa
Carlos Vila Nova has been re-elected to a second term as president of São Tomé and Príncipe after winning 55.88% of the vote in the first round, the Constitutional Court confirmed following the July 19 election.
Election Results and Turnout
Vila Nova secured a clear first-round victory with 55.88% of ballots. Nito d'Abreu, nominated by Vila Nova's former party, the ADI, received 41.47%.
The Constitutional Court has officially validated the final tally. EU election observers praised the vote for being peaceful and orderly but expressed concern about low participation: turnout was roughly 40% according to official figures.
Political Context
Vila Nova ran as an independent after parts of the centre-right ADI split from him following his dismissal of Prime Minister Patrice Trovoada in 2025. The election took place against the backdrop of a government crisis and mounting economic difficulties that have heightened political tensions.
Strategic Importance
São Tomé and Príncipe is an equatorial island nation in the Gulf of Guinea with an estimated population of about 245,000. Its proximity to prospective oil reserves and its location along Atlantic trade and smuggling routes have increased its geopolitical significance. The European Union and the United States view the country as an important security partner, while Russia has been stepping up military cooperation to expand its influence in the Atlantic.
Background
The nation has a record of largely peaceful transfers of power in recent decades, though it has experienced coup attempts in its history. Observers say the peaceful conduct of this election is a positive sign amid ongoing domestic and regional pressures.
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