São Tomé president demands prime minister backed by majority from MLSTP
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on STP-Press
The São Toméan president has given the MLSTP, which won the 27 September legislative election without an absolute majority, 24 hours to nominate a prime minister, demanding written proof of sufficient parliamentary support. The 19th government remains in a caretaker role until the new executive is appointed and sworn in, according to the presidency.
The president of São Tomé and Príncipe, Carlos Vila Nova, asked the MLSTP, which won the 27 September legislative election with 24 MPs but without an absolute majority, on Wednesday 11 November to propose a prime minister within 24 hours, accompanied by evidence that the nominee has sufficient parliamentary support. The presidency notably demands guarantees allowing the government programme to be adopted and ensuring the regular functioning of the government, according to a presidential statement cited by STP-Press.
The 19th constitutional government remains in office until the prime minister of the next government is appointed and takes office, but is limited to actions necessary for the day-to-day management of public affairs. President Carlos Vila Nova had already asked the MLSTP for a prime minister within 24 hours on 10 November.
The MLSTP, led by Américo Barros, claims the right to form the next government following its victory in the legislative election. The new legislature began on 11 November, prompting the resignation of the incumbent government, the São Toméan presidency cited by STP-Press said.
