President Jose Maria Neves has declared his intention to run for a second five-year term.

Making the announcement in the capital Praia, the 66-year-old said he wants to put his experience at the service of the nation's future and build what he called a victorious and prosperous nation. Cape Verde heads to the polls on November 15.

President Neves previously served as Prime Minister from 2001 to 2016, before being elected President in 2021. Following his declaration, the President of the National Assembly, Janira Hopffer Almada, will serve as interim President for the next two months.

Nine other aspirants have already indicated interest in the presidential race. However, they are required to submit their documents to the Constitutional Court before Wednesday.

President Neves said he is seeking the backing of his former party, the African Party for the Independence of Cape Verde, the PAICV, while also calling for broader support.