Voters in São Tomé and Príncipe are preparing to head to the polls on Sunday, with many calling for political change, stronger leadership and more opportunities for young people in the small island nation.
The issue dominating conversations across the country is the growing departure of young people in search of better prospects abroad.
From market stalls to taxi ranks, voters said they want the next government to create jobs and invest in opportunities that would encourage young people to build their futures at home.
Student Gelmarisa dos Ramos said she planned to vote as part of her responsibility as a citizen.
“These elections are important to me because they are a way to choose someone who can lead the country better and take it to the next level,” she said.
Street vendor Alcina Rita said she hoped the election would be conducted peacefully and without irregularities.
“I would like the country to change a little. It’s very chaotic. And yes, I will vote,” she said.
Driver Edilson Gaspar also said he intended to vote, urging other citizens to exercise their franchise.
“My expectation for this year is to see a prime minister from São Tomé, and as a citizen, I have to exercise my right to vote and contribute to my country,” he said.
But not all young people are convinced that voting will bring change.
Outside the busy central market in the capital, three motorcycle taxi drivers debated whether participating in the election was worthwhile.
“Since I was born, nothing has changed in this country,” said Miguel, who said he would stay home on election day.
Ericson said he remained undecided, while Nilson said he would vote in the hope that the election would help create jobs.
The three drivers, however, agreed that the lack of opportunities was driving too many young people to consider leaving the country.
“We need investment, new businesses, a new port, and a new airport,” Nilson said, adding that limited alternatives had pushed many young people into motorcycle taxi work.
About 142,000 registered voters will choose among seven political parties competing for control of the 55-seat National Assembly.
Voters will also participate in municipal elections on São Tomé island and regional elections in Príncipe.
In the country’s small parliamentary democracy, which is often regarded as one of Africa’s more stable political systems, the legislative election is considered the most consequential contest.
With emigration rising in recent years, the incoming government will face the challenge of convincing young people that they can build sustainable futures at home.
A 2025 World Bank report estimated that at least 18 per cent of the country’s population, or nearly 40,000 people, lived abroad.
Former Prime Minister Gabriel Da Costa said the trend was affecting the wider economy, including sectors such as construction, where labour shortages have become a concern.
“The whole economy is suffering from this,” he said.
The major political parties agree that attracting investment is essential to addressing the country’s economic challenges.
“Our entire policy is aimed at creating the conditions needed to attract investors,” said Foreign Minister Ilza Amado Vaz, a candidate of the ruling Independent Democratic Action party.
She said the government also wanted to reduce São Tomé and Príncipe’s dependence on foreign partners, including Portugal, the European Union, Brazil, China and the United States.
Amado Vaz also advocated expanding “high-quality tourism that respects biodiversity” in the island nation, whose beaches and ecosystems have contributed to its recognition as a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
However, the election also faces the challenge of voter apathy. Turnout has declined in recent elections, with nearly six in 10 registered voters staying away from the polls during July’s presidential election.
