Voters in São Tomé and Príncipe are calling on the next government to tackle economic hardship, create jobs and improve living conditions as the island nation faces a growing wave of youth emigration.
As citizens cast their ballots in Sunday’s general election, many voters said they wanted political leaders to focus on everyday challenges, particularly employment and opportunities for young people.
Market vendor Maria Nascimento said the incoming government should pay greater attention to the needs of ordinary citizens.
“I hope that in the coming years they will think more about people like us, people at the grassroots, like us market vendors,” she said.
For others, the priority is ensuring that the new administration takes concrete action after assuming office.
Block manufacturer Aidolander Francisco said voters expected the government to address the country’s challenges.
“I hope that when they are in office, they will pay attention to what is wrong, so that they can see whether they can help the country,” he said.
Young voters also expressed concern about whether campaign promises would translate into tangible improvements.
Student Carla Vaz said her expectation was that the eventual government would deliver on its electoral commitments.
“My expectation is that whoever manages to form the government will fulfil the promises made during the elections and improve the situation in the country,” she said.
The pressure to create opportunities at home has grown as more citizens leave the country in search of better prospects abroad.
A 2025 World Bank report estimated that nearly 40,000 people, equivalent to about 18 per cent of São Tomé and Príncipe’s population, live outside the country.
The scale of emigration has made employment and economic opportunities key concerns for voters, particularly among younger citizens.
The next government will therefore face pressure to expand job opportunities and improve living conditions while creating conditions that could encourage more young people to remain on the islands and build their futures there.
