The electoral campaign began today in São Tomé with barricades erected in several communities. Various grassroots groups formed road blockades using burning tires and wood, protesting against the decision that rejected the MCI-PS/PUN coalition candidacy. The protests were observed in various areas of the country, signaling a campaign start marked by social tension.
The MCI-PS/PUN coalition saw its candidacy rejected in five consecutive electoral cycles. The alleged reason for this rejection relates to the forgery of signatures on the supporting documents for the candidacy, an accusation that the coalition's supporters contest and demonstrate against.
The protests with barricades arise as a form of pressure on the electoral authorities, demanding a re-examination of the decision that excluded the coalition from the electoral process. The communities involved show determination to continue the demonstrations until there is a favorable resolution.
