The political career of Manuel Pinto da Costa spans over four decades in São Tomé and Príncipe, beginning with his role as the nation’s first president in 1975. Born on 5 August 1937 in Água Grande, he emerged as a central figure in the country’s transition from colonial rule to sovereign statehood as an economist and strategist.
Early Presidency and Party Alignment
Pinto da Costa served his initial term as president from 1975 until 1991. During these years, he maintained the Movement for the Liberation of São Tomé and Príncipe (MLSTP) as the dominant political force. His administration fostered strong international ties, particularly with Angola and the MPLA. He cultivated a long-standing personal relationship with Angolan leader José Eduardo dos Santos, dating back to their youth. His academic background, which included education in East Germany, left him fluent in both Portuguese and German, languages that facilitated his diplomatic engagements.
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The year 1991 marked a shift toward a multi-party democratic system in São Tomé and Príncipe. Pinto da Costa declined to participate in the inaugural democratic election, prompting his initial departure from politics. However, this retirement proved temporary. He returned in 1996 to challenge Miguel Trovoada, securing 47.26% of the vote but falling short of victory. In 2001, he contested the presidency again against incumbent Fradique de Menezes, who successfully maintained his position in the first round of voting. Throughout these years, he remained active in the MLSTP, serving as party leader from 1998 until his resignation in February 2005.
Return to Power and Final Term
In 2011, Pinto da Costa sought the presidency once more, this time running as an independent candidate. After leading the initial vote, he faced Evaristo Carvalho of the Independent Democratic Action party in an August run-off. He secured 53% of the vote, campaigning on a platform focused on corruption reform and national stability. He assumed office on 3 September 2011. His second term lasted until 2016, a year in which he qualified for the second round of elections but ultimately opted to boycott the process, resulting in his departure from the executive office.
Honours and Decorations
His public service has been recognized through various international honors. Pinto da Costa has received the Order of José Martí, the Order of the Republic of Serbia, and the Order of Agostinho Neto. Furthermore, he has been awarded both the Order of Prince Henry and the Grand Collar of the Order of Prince Henry.
Fast facts
- Born: 5 August 1937, Água Grande
- Citizenship: Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe
- Profession: Politician, Economist
- Presidential Term 1: 1975-1991
- Presidential Term 2: 2011-2016
- Languages: Portuguese, German
Questions readers ask
Did Manuel Pinto da Costa serve consecutively as president?
No, there was a gap of 20 years between his first term ending in 1991 and his second term beginning in 2011.
Why did he leave office in 2016?
After qualifying for the second round of the 2016 presidential election, he chose to boycott the vote, leading to his exit from the presidency.
