SÃO TOMÉ — President Carlos Vila Nova has won a second five-year term in São Tomé and Príncipe, according to preliminary results announced after the country’s closely watched presidential election.

Vila Nova secured more than 55% of the vote, avoiding a second-round runoff, while his main challenger, Nito Abreu, received just over 41%.

The result marks a significant moment for the island nation after a tense political period marked by divisions between the presidency and the country’s main political forces. Vila Nova ran as an independent after falling out with the Independent Democratic Action party, which had supported his successful 2021 campaign.

The election campaign focused heavily on issues including youth unemployment, emigration, inflation, fuel shortages, power cuts, and the need for stronger economic opportunities.

Vila Nova’s reelection now places renewed attention on how his second term will address economic challenges, political stability, and the country’s upcoming legislative elections.

São Tomé and Príncipe has maintained a long tradition of peaceful competitive elections, and the latest result is expected to shape the country’s political direction ahead of the next electoral phase.