São Tomé and Príncipe highlights electoral reforms: automatic registration and parity law in 2026 polls

Elisa Maria Dos Santos Amado Vaza told the Assembly that São Tomé and Príncipe's July 19 presidential elections were conducted peacefully and transparently, and that on Sept. 27 the country will hold legislative, local and regional elections. She highlighted electoral innovations "notably automatic voter registration and the first application of the parity law, which is a significant step towards strengthening the inclusion and participation of women."

The minister said women currently account for 41.4% of confirmed candidacies, a figure she noted is above the legal threshold of 40% and will enable a growing presence of women in decision-making spaces. She framed these innovations as part of broader reforms to strengthen justice, security and trust in institutions.