Sao Tome and Principe: Post-election tension possible nationwide through early October after opposition party wins legislative elections

Event

Post-election-related tension is likely in Sao Tome and Principe, especially in the capital Sao Tome, through early October after the National Electoral Commission (CEN) released the preliminary results of the Sept. 26 legislative elections. According to the results, the opposition Independent Democratic Action (ADI) party won the elections with 36,559 votes against 25,531 votes for the incumbent Liberation of Sao Tome and Principe/Social Democratic Party (MLSTP/PSD).

Protests are possible in the coming days across the country. Heightened security is likely across the country, including Sao Tome. Clashes between supporters of rival political groupings are possible. Authorities will likely use force to disperse any protests that materialize. Localized road travel disruptions are likely near any incidents of civil unrest or violence.

Advice

Avoid all protests and areas where security forces are congregating. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure.