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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The country is divided in constituencies for legislative elections. For presidential elections, the whole country territory forms a single constituency. For municipal elections, constituencies correspond exactly to the territory of each municipality.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 102:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 372, 402, 406, 428:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
a . The legislature (national/subnational)
Comments: The preamble of the Electoral Law establishes that the National Assembly decrees the provisions of the code under its constitutional mandate. Because the boundaries are written into the articles of this law, any change to them requires a legislative act by the Assembly.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 1, 406:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
d . Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 406 (2, 3): http://www.parlamento.cv/userfiles/image/site/Leis/Altera%20o%20C%C3%B3digo%20Eleitoral%20-%20texto%20integrante.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2026/04/04
BD004
Question: If population is a criterion, which population figure is used?
Answer:
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2026/04/04
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
a . Legislature (1st chamber)
Comments: The body responsible for defining and approving the constituency boundaries is the National Assembly (Assembleia Nacional).
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 102 (2, 3):
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 406:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
m . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2026/04/04
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
c . Directly elected in general elections (absolute majority with 2nd round if necessary)
Comments: The candidate who obtains the absolute majority of valid votes cast is elected President. If none of the candidates obtains the absolute majority of votes, there shall be a second round between the two candidates that obtained the highest number of votes on the first round within 15 days of the latter.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 109, 113, 114, 125:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 374:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
e . Appointed
Comments: The Prime Minister is appointed by the President, in consultation with the political parties represented in the National Assembly and given the election results, the existence of political power and the existence of coalitions or alliances.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 194 (1):
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 109 - 114, 125 - 139:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
a . One chamber
Comments: The National Assembly is the national legislature.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 140:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
g . List Proportional Representation
Comments: The members of the National Assembly are elected by proportional representation from closed party lists.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 115, 116, 141:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 402, 408:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES006
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 2 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
k . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES007
Question: If List PR is used, is a highest average formula used?
Answer:
a . d'Hondt Formula
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 416:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
b . Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: Within the national territory, the law generally uses the islands as the boundary for electoral constituencies. The island of Santiago is the only one specially divided into two distinct constituencies: Santiago North and Santiago South. For citizens residing outside the national territory, the law establishes three specially delimited constituencies, all of which have their headquarters in the city of Praia: Africa; America; Europe and the Rest of the World.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 406, :
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source:
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: The National Assembly of Cabo Verde does not reserve seats for specific ethnic, religious, or minority groups. However, the electoral system includes 6 seats specifically reserved for the Cabo Verdean diaspora living outside the national territory. Furthermore, the law mandates that all lists proposed for election must maintain a balanced representation of both sexes. To further encourage this, political parties or coalitions are awarded an additional financial "premium" from the state if their lists result in the election of at least 25% female candidates at the national level.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 141:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 415:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
c . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source:
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
a . No minimum
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Fernando Monteiro, member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source:
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length) d . Other
Comments: The legislature has a duration of five legislative sessions (roughly five years). Ordinary elections for Deputies are scheduled for a date within a window of 30 days before to 30 days after the legal termination of their mandates. However, elections can be "called" outside of the fixed five-year cycle. The President may dissolve the Assembly in cases of serious institutional crisis or if the Assembly rejects two motions of confidence or approves four motions of censorship in one legislature. In the event of dissolution, new elections must be held 90 days thereafter.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 108:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 143:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Fernando Monteiro, member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 108:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source:
Verified: 2026/04/04
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 104 - 118, 140, 141, 142:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
a . January 2000 or later
Comments: Amended in March 2010.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections c . Local elections
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 1:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments: Voting is not mandatory, but it is considered a civic duty.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 191:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
LF005
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require regional and/ or local election (s) to be held on the same day as national elections?
Answer:
a . National elections are not held on the same day as regional or local elections
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2026/04/04
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Presidential elections are not held on the same day as national legislative elections
Comments: The Constitution establishes a mandatory gap of one hundred and eighty (180) days between presidential and national legislative elections. The law stipulates that, except in cases where the office of the President becomes vacant, a presidential election may not be held within 180 days before or after the date of elections for the National Assembly.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 112:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary
Comments: The Supreme Court of Justice and the Constitutional Court.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 97:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 20, 252, 353, 399:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments: The EMB settles first level of formal electoral disputes.
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2026/04/04
LF009
Question: Who has the right to submit cases to the person or agency(ies)which settles formal disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Candidates b . Parties c . Voters
Comments: Political parties and candidates are the primary entities with the right to submit cases and appeals to the judicial bodies that settle formal electoral disputes. However, the law also extends this right to voters. Any elector can submit claims regarding omissions or undue registrations in the census for their area. Any elector registered at a specific polling station has the right to present a complaint, protest, or counter-protest regarding the operations of that station.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 20, 60, 184, 201, 353:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
LF010
Question: What body(ies) is the final appellate authority for formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
b . Constitutional (or similar) Court c . Superior Court
Comments: The Constitutional Court (or the Supreme Court in its stead as the Constitutional Court was being installed) is empowered to judge in the final instance the regularity and validity of the electoral process. A 2010 amendment to the Electoral Law explicitly updated the law to state that almost all references to the "Supreme Court of Justice" within the Electoral Law are now to be considered as references to the Constitutional Court, however. The only exception are administrative acts of the EMB that are not strictly related to the electoral process itself; these remain under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of Justice per the updated Electoral Law.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 294:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 4, 20:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
LF011
Question: Which body(ies) proposes electoral reforms?
Answer(s):
c . Government e . Legislature f . Other
Comments: The initiative to propose or reform ordinary laws (such as the Electoral Law) belongs to: deputies (members of the National Assembly), who can introduce draft laws; parliamentary groups (groups of at least five deputies), who can also introduce drafts; the government, which can introduce bills; and groups of voting citizens, under the terms and conditions
regulated by law.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 157:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level c . Local level
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 96:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 10, 18 (1- a):
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2026/04/04
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature g . Other
Comments: The National Electoral Commission develops its own budget plan which is submitted for approval to the National Assembly.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 28 (1, 2):
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
e . Another organ within the national government
Comments: The Court of Auditors
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 28 (4):
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
b . For a specified number of years
Comments: The members of the National Electoral Commission are appointed for a term of 6 years.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 13 (1):
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
EM007
Question: The national electoral management body chairperson, or equivalent, is chosen in the following way:
Answer(s):
a . Elected (specify by whom)
Comments: The President of the national EMBD is elected by the National Assembly. He or she must secure a two-thirds majority among the deputies present, provided this is greater than the absolute majority of the deputies in full exercise of their functions.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 12:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
c . Mixed
Comments: The National Electoral Commission, which is the supreme electoral authority, is an independent and permanent body. The Directorate General for Support to the Electoral Process is a governmental department in charge of providing technical, administrative and logistical support to the electoral process. Its functions are exercised under the supervision and control of the National Electoral Commission.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 11, 18, 26:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026);
Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 96:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Law-decree no. 29/2007 of 20 August 2007
Verified: 2026/04/04
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: The National Electoral Commission is composed of 5 members.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 12:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026);
Official Website of the National Electoral Commission: https://cne.cv/estrutura-organica/ (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments: The President of the National Electoral Assembly must be a citizen of reputed merit, hold a degree in law, be in full possession of his/her civil and political rights and have at least seven years of professional experience. The remaining members of the National Electoral Assembly must be qualified citizens of recognised merit.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 12:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
e . Legislature
Comments: The members of the National Electoral Commission are elected by the National Assembly with a 2/3 majority of the deputies that are present.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 12 (1):
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 181 (1-d):
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 18 (1-f):
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Official Website of the Directorate General for Support to the Electoral Process: http://www.dgape.cv/index.php/faqs?view=faq&catid=2 (2016)
Verified: 2026/04/04
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
d . No information available
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 18 (1-f): http://www.parlamento.cv/userfiles/image/site/Leis/Altera%20o%20C%C3%B3digo%20Eleitoral%20-%20texto%20integrante.pdf (2016);
Official Website of the Directorate General for Support to the Electoral Process: http://www.dgape.cv/index.php/faqs?view=faq&catid=2 (2016)
Verified: 2026/04/04
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
m . No information available
Comments: No information available.
Source:
Verified: 2026/04/04
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments: No information available.
Source:
Verified: 2026/04/04
VE005
Question: What types of civic education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments: No information available.
Source:
Verified: 2026/04/04
VE006
Question: Special voter education programs were developed at the most recent national elections for:
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments: No information available.
Source:
Verified: 2026/04/04
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 55 (2):
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 5, 369, 403:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship
Comments: All citizens of Cape Verde above 18 years old have the right to vote.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 55 (2): http://www.parlamento.cv/Downloads/Constitui%C3%A7%C3%A3o%20da%20Rep%C3%BAblica%20de%20Cabo%20verde,%202010.pdf (2016);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 5, 369, 403: http://www.parlamento.cv/userfiles/image/site/Leis/Altera%20o%20C%C3%B3digo%20Eleitoral%20-%20texto%20integrante.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/05/04
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
b . Previous Conviction d . Mental disability
Comments: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 7:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Source:
Verified: 2026/04/04
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
d . Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: The Voter Registration Commissions ("comissões de recenseamento") under the instructions of the National Electoral Commission. The Central Election Support Service (DGAPE) additionally provides technical, administrative, and logistical support.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 25, 42, 44, 45, 73:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
VR005
Question: What is the registration method for national elections?
Answer:
b . Voters register
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/13
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
b . Annually
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/13
VR007
Question: What methods are used to compile and update the voters register?
Answer(s):
c . Links for applications for government services e . Appearance by voter at registration office
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2001/10/04
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 95 (2):
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 32, 33, 35:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/04
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
e . Minimum number of candidates f . Other
Comments: Legally established political parties or coalitions must submit lists of candidates between the 50th and 40th days preceding the date of the election. Coalition pacts must be registered with the Constitutional Court before the start of this registration period.
Each party list must contain a number of candidates equal to the number of seats to be filled in each constituency, and of alternate candidates in a number of not fewer than three, nor greater than the number of principal candidates. Furthermore, political parties, their coalitions or groups of independent citizens may not introduce to each electoral constituency more than one list of candidates for the same election.
No one may be candidate for more than one electoral constituency or appear on more than one list. The lists must also ensure a balanced representation of both sexes.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 106:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 340, 343, 347 348, 366, 374, 414, 430, 431: https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Fernando Monteiro, member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/19
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship f . Registration
Comments: All Cabo Verdean citizens who are registered voters above 18 years old are eligible to stand for elections to the National Assembly.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 117:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 8:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
k . No information available
Comments: The national legislature only consists of one chamber.
Source: Fernando Monteiro, member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/19
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship d . Residence f . Registration
Comments: a.) 35 years
d.) Must have been living in the country at least the 3 years previous to elections.
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/19
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration b . Detention c . Criminal record f . Holding of military office g . Holding of government office k . Mental health problems
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/13
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Current criminal incarceration b . Detention c . Criminal record k . Mental health problems
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/13
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
b . In presidential elections
Comments: For legislative elections, independent candidates must be included in a party list or coalition. However, political party lists may include citizens not registered with any party, provided they are declared as such on the list.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 106:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 340, 341, 376:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2001/10/04
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2001/10/04
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
a . Signature requirement (specify)
Comments: Signature requirement: 1000 a 4000
Source:
Verified: 2001/10/04
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Direct c . Indirect
Comments: The State provides direct financial support to political parties and candidates through election-related subsidies. For presidential and legislative elections, the State grants a subsidy of at least 750 escudos per valid vote obtained in the previous election. For municipal elections, this amount is 500 escudos per vote. In presidential elections, the State budget specifically allocates funds to co-finance the campaigns of candidates who obtained at least 10% of the valid votes. A party or candidate cannot receive more than 60% of the total global state subvention calculated for that specific election.
The law provides several forms of indirect funding. During election campaigns, parties and candidates are entitled to free airtime on all radio and television stations, regardless of whether they are public or private. Candidates and parties have free access to state-owned or municipal buildings, venues, and journalistic spaces for their campaign activities. Documents and certificates required for the electoral census, the presentation of candidacies, or election-related appeals are exempt from all taxes, fees, and stamp duties. The government establishes special (reduced) tariffs for the distribution of electoral propaganda via postal or electronic mail.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 98, 102, 111, 117, 124 (1, 3), 128 267, 390:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
PC013
Question: If political parties receive direct/indirect public funding, when do they receive this?
Answer(s):
a . As related to the election period only
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2001/10/04
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
a . Free media access
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2001/10/04
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Based on result of previous election
Comments: The state funding is distributed to political parties that participated in election in proportion to the valid votes obtained by each political party in each election.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 124 (3):
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
PC016
Question: If political parties receive public funding, what is the specified purpose?
Answer(s):
c . Unspecified
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/13
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 124 (1):
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
PC018
Question: If political parties are entitled to private funding, for what period?
Answer(s):
c . As related to the election period and between elections
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/13
PC019
Question: Which of the following party financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
a . Public disclosure of party contributions received b . Public disclosure of party expenditure c . Prohibition on party funding from foreign sources h . Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/13
PC020
Question: Which of the following candidate financing provisions are applicable?
Answer(s):
a . Public disclosure of candidate contributions received b . Public disclosure of candidate expenditure c . Prohibition on candidate funding from foreign sources h . Publication or public access to contribution and / or expenditure reports
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2001/10/04
PC021
Question: Who is responsible for administering and enforcing party income/funding regulations at national level?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management body
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/13
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties listed) h . Party symbols in color n . Random listing (lottery)
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
s . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
a . Single ballot (all registered parties/candidates listed) d . Categorical (only possible to make one mark) f . Same ballot papers used nation-wide j . Candidate photos in color n . Random listing (lottery)
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
a . The polling stations
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 227:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
b . Preliminary count of all ballots in ballot box c . Tally of voters who voted d . Number of ballots in box reconciled against number of voters e . Number of ballots reconciled against ballots initially received (minus spoilt and unused) f . Each ballot paper held up for public scrutiny, with name of party/candidate called out loud g . Single tallying as voters are being called out j . Sorted into piles according to individual party/candidate l . Counted by hand p . Copies of results of the count are publicly posted at the counting site immediately on the completion of the count r . Observers and party agents are permitted to take their own copies of the results
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
c . District level
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC007
Question: At what levels are seats allocated?
Answer(s):
b . District level
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
a . Physically transported c . By fax
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
a . Ballots b . Unused and spoiled ballots c . Counterfoils of used ballots d . Voter rolls e . Tendered ballots f . Certificate of result g . Ballot boxes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC010
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what security measures are used?
Answer(s):
c . Signatures on sealed envelopes e . Accompanied by election officials h . Accompanied by police or other security personnel
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
b . Always recounted e . Court order f . Other
Comments: Ballots may be recounted under the following conditions: 1) The General Count Assembly (assembleia de apuramento geral) has the administrative authority to recount votes without a prior court order under specific circumstances, including if there are "well-founded doubts" about the initial count performed by a specific polling station board (however, it cannot change the qualification of votes in such an instance). 2) A recount is a built-in part of the initial counting process. After the initial tally where tellers announce the votes and record them on a board, the president of the polling station board must perform a counter-proof count (contraprova) by physically counting the ballots in the separate piles created for each candidate, list, blank, and null status. 3) A court order (including in response to protests lodged by candidates or mandataries with the Constitutional Court).
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 227, 239, 243 (2), 254 (2), 401 (2):
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments: The ballots are not automatically recounted.
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
a . Political parties b . An individual candidate
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC014
Question: If recounted, who conducts the recount?
Answer(s):
a . National Election Management body c . Local Election Management body
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC015
Question: Are preliminary results announced?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC017
Question: Is there a legal requirement for the declaration of the officially certified results?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC018
Question: How long after the close of polls is the certified results publicly announced? (if there is no legal requirement enter the average time)
Answer:
b . days:
Comments: a.) 14 days
Final certified results are offically published by the Electoral Commission.
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2009/11/04
Media and Elections
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
a . Equal regardless of size of party and previous performance b . Based on number of candidates put forward in present elections
Comments: For legislative elections, airtime is shared among parties or coalitions in proportion to the number of candidates they represent in the current election. For presidential elections, airtime is distributed equally among all candidates competing for the Presidency.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 117:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
a . Yes, in presidential elections
Comments:
Source: Latest presidential election (2021) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bE5GeleExY (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
f . 10 or more days
Comments: Sixty days prior to elections.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 105 (2-a):
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: There are no specific legal provision regulating this matter.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 128:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 4 (1), 103, 157, 158, 160, 175 (i), 203 (2-a), 254 (1-c): https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 4 (1), 103, 157, 158, 160, 175 (i), 203 (2-a), 254 (1-c): https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The initiative to trigger an optional national referendum on issues of "relevant national interest" belongs to the National Assembly and the government. However, the Constitution explicitly prohibits several topics from being the object of a referendum, including the separation of powers, the independence of the courts, budgetary/tax instruments, and constitutionally established rights and liberties.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 4 (1), 103, 157, 158, 160, 175 (i), 203 (2-a), 254 (1-c): https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010:
https://www.parlamento.cv/Constituicao/ (2026);
Verified: 2026/04/05
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The Constitution explicitly lists the direct initiative of a group of voting citizens as one of the three ways laws can be initiated in the country. This right is exercised by a group of voting citizens under terms and conditions that must be regulated by a specific law. Citizens also have a right of petition, by which they may present written petitions, complaints, or claims to sovereign bodies for the protection of their rights, the Constitution, laws, or the general interest. The Constitution mandates that petitions submitted to the National Assembly be submitted to the Plenary for assessment under the terms of the law.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 59, 157: http://www.parlamento.cv/Downloads/Constitui%C3%A7%C3%A3o%20da%20Rep%C3%BAblica%20de%20Cabo%20verde,%202010.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2026/04/05
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010: http://www.parlamento.cv/Downloads/Constitui%C3%A7%C3%A3o%20da%20Rep%C3%BAblica%20de%20Cabo%20verde,%202010.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2026/04/05
DD104
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD117
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Comments: C:ChII:108 "1. The electors registered in the electoral census in the national territory shall have the right to pronounce themselves through a referendum on any matter relevant to national or local interest. 2. The convening and the holding of a referendum shall be prohibited between the date of the convening and the holding of the elections for the organs of sovereignty or of local power, during the state of siege or emergency and until thirty days following its cessation, and in the latter case, only in the part of the territory declared to be under the state of emergency. 3. Each referendum shall only have a sole question as its object and the following questions shall not, in any case, be submitted to popular scrutiny: a) Separation and the interdependence of the organs of sovereignty and their powers; b) Independence of the courts and their decisions; c) Separation of churches from the State; d) Appointment of the elected holders of the organs of sovereignty and of local administration by universal, direct, secret and periodic ballot; e) Pluralism of expression, existence of political parties and associations and rights of the opposition; f) Rights, liberties and guarantees established constitutionally; g) National or local acts which have a budgetary, tributary or financial content; h) Autonomy of the local administration, as well as the organization and competence of their organs. 4. The proposals for a referendum shall be subject to preventive monitoring of their constitutionality and legality. 5. Once the proposal for a referendum is judged to be unconstitutional or illegal, such referendum shall not take place, nor shall the proposal be renewed in the same legislature. 6. Proposals for a referendum that have been refused by the competent organ or that have been the object of a negative response from the electorate shall not be renewed in the same legislature. 7. The result of a referendum shall be abided by all organs of political power, as well as by public and private entities. 8. The provisions of Articles 102 to 105 shall be applicable to the referenda, with the necessary adaptations. 9. The questions to be submitted to the electors shall be formulated with simplicity, objectivity, precision and clarity, in such a way as not to suggest, directly or indirectly, any response. Any response shall be given as a "yes" or a "nay."
C:ChII:110 "1. The local referendum shall cover matters that are of exclusive competence of the organs of local administration and shall always have deliberative effect. 2. The local referendum shall be convened by the Mayor at the initiative of the Municipality, the Municipal Assembly or, at the initiative of, at least, ten percent of the electors registered in the electoral census of the area of the local administration where the consultation takes place. 3. The convening of a referendum shall be approved by the majority of two thirds of the members of the Municipal Assembly on active duty."
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Cape Verde, Chapter II, articles 108 and 110
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Comments: C:ChII:108 "1. The electors registered in the electoral census in the national territory shall have the right to pronounce themselves through a referendum on any matter relevant to national or local interest. 2. The convening and the holding of a referendum shall be prohibited between the date of the convening and the holding of the elections for the organs of sovereignty or of local power, during the state of siege or emergency and until thirty days following its cessation, and in the latter case, only in the part of the territory declared to be under the state of emergency. 3. Each referendum shall only have a sole question as its object and the following questions shall not, in any case, be submitted to popular scrutiny: a) Separation and the interdependence of the organs of sovereignty and their powers; b) Independence of the courts and their decisions; c) Separation of churches from the State; d) Appointment of the elected holders of the organs of sovereignty and of local administration by universal, direct, secret and periodic ballot; e) Pluralism of expression, existence of political parties and associations and rights of the opposition; f) Rights, liberties and guarantees established constitutionally; g) National or local acts which have a budgetary, tributary or financial content; h) Autonomy of the local administration, as well as the organization and competence of their organs. 4. The proposals for a referendum shall be subject to preventive monitoring of their constitutionality and legality. 5. Once the proposal for a referendum is judged to be unconstitutional or illegal, such referendum shall not take place, nor shall the proposal be renewed in the same legislature. 6. Proposals for a referendum that have been refused by the competent organ or that have been the object of a negative response from the electorate shall not be renewed in the same legislature. 7. The result of a referendum shall be abided by all organs of political power, as well as by public and private entities. 8. The provisions of Articles 102 to 105 shall be applicable to the referenda, with the necessary
adaptations. 9. The questions to be submitted to the electors shall be formulated with simplicity, objectivity, precision and clarity, in such a way as not to suggest, directly or indirectly, any response. Any response shall be given as a "yes" or a "nay."
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Cape Verde, Chapter II, articles 108 and 110
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all municipalities/districts/communes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
k . None
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments b . Adoption of international treaties c . Transfer of authority to international bodies g . Civil service i . Other public policy issues j . Other (specify)
Comments: j) Any matter except the ones defined by the constitution. C:ChII:108 "1. The electors registered in the electoral census in the national territory shall have the right to pronounce themselves through a referendum on any matter relevant to national or local interest."
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Cape Verde, article 108
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . National sovereignty, national self-determination e . Conflict between constitutional organs f . Devolution h . Taxes and public expenditure commitments j . Other (specify)
Comments: j) C:ChII:108 "3. Each referendum shall only have a sole question as its object and the following questions shall not, in any case, be submitted to popular scrutiny: a) Separation and the interdependence of the organs of sovereignty and their powers; b) Independence of the courts and their decisions; c) Separation of churches from the State; d) Appointment of the elected holders of the organs of sovereignty and of local administration by universal, direct, secret and periodic ballot; e) Pluralism of expression, existence of political parties and associations and rights of the opposition; f) Rights, liberties and guarantees established constitutionally; g) National or local acts which have a budgetary, tributary or financial content; h) Autonomy of the local administration, as well as the organization and competence of their organs."
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Cape Verde, article 108
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Government d . Legislative majority e . Registered electors
Comments: C:ChII:109 "1. The referendum at the national level shall be convened by the President of the Republic, at the initiative of the people, the National Assembly or the Government. 2. At the people's initiative, the President of the Republic may convene a referendum on any matter relevant to national interest, at the request of thirty thousand citizens, after the political parties
represented in the National Assembly and the Council of the Republic are heard. 3. The request referred to in the preceding paragraph should be sponsored by a minimum of ten per cent of the electors, residing in, at least, seven islands. 4. The proposal of the National Assembly shall be approved by two thirds of the deputies present, if the number is higher than the absolute majority of the deputies on active duty."
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Cape Verde, article 109
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD032
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD034
Question: Which of the following, if any, are required to be included in the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD036
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD040
Question: What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD042
Question: In which areas, if any, do regulatory provisions differ between a referendum and a national election? Tick all that apply and specify below in the comments section.
Answer(s):
g . None
Comments: g) The electoral law is also applied to the referendum. C:ChII:108 "8. The provisions of Articles 102 to 105 shall be applicable to the referenda, with the necessary
adaptations."
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Cape Verde, articles 102-105 and 108
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD043
Question: When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD044
Question: When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
Answer:
a . Always
Comments: C:ChII:108 " 7. The result of a referendum shall be abided by all organs of political power, as well as by public and private entities"
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Cape Verde, article 108
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD045
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments b . Legislative proposals c . Other (specify)
Comments: c) All matters that can be put to referendum.
C:ChII:108 "1. The electors registered in the electoral census in the national territory shall have the right to pronounce themselves through a referendum on any matter relevant to national or local interest. 2. The convening and the holding of a referendum shall be prohibited between the date of the convening and the holding of the elections for the organs of sovereignty or of local power, during the state of siege or emergency and until thirty days following its cessation, and in the latter case, only in the part of the territory declared to be under the state of emergency. 3. Each referendum shall only have a sole question as its object and the following questions shall not, in any case, be submitted to popular scrutiny: a) Separation and the interdependence of the organs of sovereignty and their powers; b) Independence of the courts and their decisions; c) Separation of churches from the State; d) Appointment of the elected holders of the organs of sovereignty and of local administration by universal, direct, secret and periodic ballot; e) Pluralism of expression, existence of political parties and associations and rights of the opposition; f) Rights, liberties and guarantees established constitutionally; g) National or local acts which have a budgetary, tributary or financial content; h) Autonomy of the local administration, as well as the organization and competence of their organs. 4. The proposals for a referendum shall be subject to preventive monitoring of their constitutionality and legality. 5. Once the proposal for a referendum is judged to be unconstitutional or illegal, such referendum shall not take place, nor shall the proposal be renewed in the same legislature. 6. Proposals for a referendum that have been refused by the competent organ or that have been the object of a negative response from the electorate shall not be renewed in the same legislature. 7. The result of a referendum shall be abided by all organs of political power, as well as by public and private entities. 8. The provisions of Articles 102 to 105 shall be applicable to the referenda, with the necessary
adaptations. 9. The questions to be submitted to the electors shall be formulated with simplicity, objectivity, precision and clarity, in such a way as not to suggest, directly or indirectly, any response. Any response shall be given as a "yes" or a "nay."
C:ChII:109 "1. The referendum at the national level shall be convened by the President of the Republic, at the initiative of the people, the National Assembly or the Government. 2. At the people's initiative, the President of the Republic may convene a referendum on any matter relevant to national interest, at the request of thirty thousand citizens, after the political parties
represented in the National Assembly and the Council of the Republic are heard. 3. The request referred to in the preceding paragraph should be sponsored by a minimum of ten per cent of the electors, residing in, at least, seven islands. 4. The proposal of the National Assembly shall be approved by two thirds of the deputies present, if the number is higher than the absolute majority of the deputies on active duty."
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Cape Verde, articles 108-109
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD047
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . National sovereignty, national self-determination e . Conflict between constitutional organs f . Devolution h . Taxes and public expenditure commitments j . Other (specify)
Comments: C:ChII:108 "3. Each referendum shall only have a sole question as its object and the following questions shall not, in any case, be submitted to popular scrutiny: a) Separation and the interdependence of the organs of sovereignty and their powers; b) Independence of the courts and their decisions; c) Separation of churches from the State; d) Appointment of the elected holders of the organs of sovereignty and of local administration by universal, direct, secret and periodic ballot; e) Pluralism of expression, existence of political parties and associations and rights of the opposition; f) Rights, liberties and guarantees established constitutionally; g) National or local acts which have a budgetary, tributary or financial content; h) Autonomy of the local administration, as well as the organization and competence of their organs."
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Cape Verde, article 108
Verified: 2006/11/27
DD049
Question: Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
a . A number of individuals
Comments: C:ChII:109 "1. The referendum at the national level shall be convened by the President of the Republic, at the initiative of the people, the National Assembly or the Government. 2. At the people's initiative, the President of the Republic may convene a referendum on any matter relevant to national interest, at the request of thirty thousand citizens, after the political parties
represented in the National Assembly and the Council of the Republic are heard."
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Cape Verde, article 109
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD057
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, who is responsible for undertaking it?
Answer(s):
f . Other (specify)
Comments: f) In the Constitution not further defined than "a competent organ".
C:ChII:108 "4. The proposals for a referendum shall be subject to preventive monitoring of their constitutionality and legality. 5. Once the proposal for a referendum is judged to be unconstitutional or illegal, such referendum shall not take place, nor shall the proposal be renewed in the same legislature. 6. Proposals for a referendum that have been refused by the competent organ or that have been the object of a negative response from the electorate shall not be renewed in the same legislature."
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Cape Verde, article 108
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD058
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
Answer(s):
c . After its submission but before the vote on the initiative
Comments: C:ChII:108 "4. The proposals for a referendum shall be subject to preventive monitoring of their constitutionality and legality. 5. Once the proposal for a referendum is judged to be unconstitutional or illegal, such referendum shall not take place, nor shall the proposal be renewed in the same legislature. 6. Proposals for a referendum that have been refused by the competent organ or that have been the object of a negative response from the electorate shall not be renewed in the same legislature."
Source: The Constitution of the Republic of Cape Verde, article 108
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD065
Question: Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD066
Question: What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD068
Question: If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD069
Question: When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD071
Question: Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD085
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD091
Question: Where can proposals for a recall be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD096
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/11/28
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
a . Always binding
Comments: The result of the referendum is binding to all the organs of political power and public and private entities.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 103 (5): http://www.parlamento.cv/Downloads/Constitui%C3%A7%C3%A3o%20da%20Rep%C3%BAblica%20de%20Cabo%20verde,%202010.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2026/04/05
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
c . Both constitutional and other issues
Comments: The law does not restrict referendums only to specific legislative topics, provided they do not fall into the prohibited categories. Each referendum shall only have a sole question as its object and the following questions shall not, in any case, be submitted to popular scrutiny:
a) Separation and the interdependence of the organs of sovereignty and their powers;
b) Independence of the courts and their decisions;
c) Separation of churches from the State;
d) Appointment of the elected holders of the organs of sovereignty and of local administration by universal, direct, secret and periodic ballot;
e) Pluralism of expression, existence of political parties and associations and rights of the opposition;
f) Rights, liberties and guarantees established constitutionally;
g) National or local acts which have a budgetary, tributary or financial content;
h) Autonomy of the local administration, as well as the organization and competence of their organs.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 103 (3), 203 (2-a): http://www.parlamento.cv/Downloads/Constitui%C3%A7%C3%A3o%20da%20Rep%C3%BAblica%20de%20Cabo%20verde,%202010.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2026/04/05
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The local referendum always has a deliberative effect.
Source: Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 176 (b), 103 (5, 7): http://www.parlamento.cv/Downloads/Constitui%C3%A7%C3%A3o%20da%20Rep%C3%BAblica%20de%20Cabo%20verde,%202010.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2026/04/05
DD132
Year of introducing Direct Democracy
Question: What year were the first Direct Democracy mechanisms introduced to the legal framework?
Answer:
f . 1981-2000
Comments: 1999
Source: "Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (2008) (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm).
Verified: 2009/08/31
DD133
Question: What year was the first referendum/initiative held?
Answer:
i . Not applicable
Comments: None so far.
Source: "Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (2008) (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm).
Verified: 2009/08/31
Voting Operations
VO001
Question: Approximately what percentage (on the basis of cost) of election day supplies and equipment are obtained or produced within the country?
Answer:
e . 51-60%
Comments: e.) Approximately 60%
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/13
VO002
Question: Is there a code of conduct for election officials?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/13
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
a . At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 199 (1):
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
b . Citizens residing outside the country
Comments: The right to vote from outside the country is granted to Cabo Verdean citizens of both sexes who are over 18 years old and are registered in the electoral census abroad. However, participation is limited to national elections.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 186, 369, 372 (2), 373 (2), 402, 403, 409 (2), 418:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2016/05/04
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
a . Embassies b . Consulates c . Special polling stations
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 129 (2): http://www.parlamento.cv/userfiles/image/site/Leis/Altera%20o%20C%C3%B3digo%20Eleitoral%20-%20texto%20integrante.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/05/04
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
b . Yes
Comments: Advance voting is allowed for:
1) Military personnel, agents of police forces, and security service members who are prevented from traveling to their assigned polling station due to an unpostponable imperative of their professional functions
2) Health service and civil protection workers whose duties on election day make it impossible for them to exercise their right to vote in person at their registered location
3) Maritime and aeronautical workers who are expected to be embarked or on duty away from their residence due to their professional activity on the day of the election
4) Electors hospitalized and interned in a health establishment because of illness
5) Electors held as prisoners in a penal institution
6) Members of polling station boards who are registered to vote at a polling station other than the one where they are performing their official duties
7) Candidates who are registered to vote in an electoral circle different from the one in which they are running for office
8) Journalists who are displaced to a municipality other than where they are registered or who are on an official service mission abroad
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 213:
https://cne.cv/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Codigo-Eleitoral-Lei-n%C2%B0-92-V-99-de-8-de-fevereiro-com-as-sucessivas-alteracoes.pdf (2026)
Verified: 2026/04/05
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
a . At special advance polling centers
Comments:
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/13
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
d . People in hospitals e . People in prison f . Other
Comments: f.) Military and Security personnel, sailors
Source: Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified: 2002/06/13
VO009
Question: Is there a maximum allowable voter capacity of a polling station for the national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2001/10/04
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments: Electronic voting pilot program to be deployed in 2026 elections.
Source: Electoral Law as amended by Law No 56/VII/2010, art. 223 (5): http://www.parlamento.cv/userfiles/image/site/Leis/Altera%20o%20C%C3%B3digo%20Eleitoral%20-%20texto%20integrante.pdf (2016)
Voz do Archipelago (2026) - https://vozdoarchipelago.cv/noticias/cabo-verde-testa-votacao-eletronica-nas-presidenciais-de-2026/
Verified: 2026/04/05
VO012
How many staff are assigned to each polling station?
The smallest polling station: 4
The largest polling station: 4
Average per polling station:
Source
Fernando Monteiro, Member of the Electoral Commission, Cape Verde, fam(a)mailcvtelecom.cv
Verified
2026/04/05
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