DÍLI, 17 July 2026 (TATOLI) – The g7+ Election Observation Mission (EOM) held talks on Friday with São Tomé and Príncipe presidential candidate Nito d’Abreu as part of efforts to assess the electoral environment and support a transparent voting process ahead of Sunday’s presidential election.
The meeting was part of the mission’s consultations with presidential candidates and other key stakeholders to gather perspectives on the electoral process, campaign conditions and any concerns that could affect the credibility of the elections.
Floyd Oxley Sayor, head of the g7+ observation mission, said the discussions helped the delegation gain a clearer understanding of potential challenges and concerns raised by electoral participants.
“We asked whether there are any problems or concerns so that we can have a clear picture of the situation. We will remain close to all stakeholders throughout the process. Our objective is to ensure that the elections are conducted freely and transparently,” Sayor said.
D’Abreu welcomed the meeting with the g7+ mission, noting that he had previously worked with the organization during an earlier electoral process.
The presidential candidate said he began preparing his candidacy more than five months ago and adopted a campaign strategy centred on direct engagement with citizens. He said his outreach efforts expanded after the official campaign period began on July 4.
D’Abreu said his campaign has focused on visiting communities, listening to citizens’ concerns and understanding the country’s main challenges.
“The President of the Republic is the guardian of the Constitution and the proper functioning of institutions. Although the president does not hold executive power, he must understand the reality of the country in order to fully exercise his responsibilities,” he said.
Supported by his political party, where he serves as a member and parliamentarian, D’Abreu said his campaign message is focused on peace, progress and national unity.
He said São Tomé and Príncipe needs to overcome political divisions in recent years through dialogue, reconciliation and stronger connections among citizens.
The g7+ mission, led by Sayor, will continue meeting with other presidential candidates and national institutions as part of its observation activities for São Tomé and Príncipe’s presidential election scheduled for July 19.
The mission will monitor the electoral process and provide an independent assessment of the conduct of the vote.
Journalist: Afonso do Rosário
Editor: Isaura Lemos de Deus
Translation: Filomeno Martins
