Cabo Verde’s November 15 presidential election will test the country’s democratic institutions, one of the most stable in Africa. The contest pits incumbent José Maria Neves, backed by the African Party for the Independence of Cabo Verde, against Joana Rosa of the opposition Movement for Democracy, alongside four other candidates. The ruling party returned to power in May after ten years in opposition, riding frustration over transport, living costs, and security. A Neves win would align the presidency with the government, raising questions about independence, while a Rosa win would produce divided leadership requiring negotiation. Although the president is not the country’s principal policymaker, given the country’s semi-presidential model, constitutional powers include vetoing legislation and dissolving parliament under certain conditions.