Ilza Amado Vaz has been named the new Prime Minister of São Tomé and Príncipe, following a decree issued by President Carlos Vila Nova on Thursday. This marks a historic achievement, as Vaz becomes the third woman to hold the office of Prime Minister in the country’s history. Her previous role as the Minister of Justice has positioned her as a capable leader, bringing substantial legal and governmental experience to the new position.
The announcement follows a week of political changes that began with President Vila Nova dissolving the government of former Prime Minister Patrice Trovoada. Earlier on Thursday, the president rejected the nomination of Helio de Almeida for the position, proposed by the ruling Independent Democratic Action Party (ADI), and called for alternative candidates to replace Trovoada.
In a press conference, President Vila Nova explained his decision, stating that de Almeida’s candidacy did not align with his “sensibility.” He further stated, “After consultations and within the scope of my responsibilities, the candidate proposed by ADI, Helio de Almeida, does not meet my sensibility. Therefore, I request that ADI propose other names for the leadership of the next government in the coming hours, as the party has other qualified cadres.”
The president’s dissolution of the government on Monday, followed by his call for a new candidate, sparked a constitutional dispute. Former Prime Minister Trovoada, a member of ADI, condemned the decision, labeling it unconstitutional, and the party has since appealed to the Constitutional Court to reverse the dissolution.
On Wednesday, Trovoada, in his capacity as ADI chairman, nominated Helio de Almeida for Prime Minister. However, following the president’s rejection of the initial candidate, ADI put forward three new nominees, with Vaz ultimately being selected to lead the government.
Vaz’s appointment is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to São Tomé and Príncipe’s political landscape as she assumes leadership of the country amidst a period of transition.