São Tomé and Príncipe’s main opposition party has won the most seats in the country’s parliamentary election.
The São Tomé election saw the Movement for the Liberation of São Tomé and Príncipe (MLSTP) secure 24 seats.
However, the party fell short of the 28 seats needed for a majority in the 55-seat parliament.
The Independent Democratic Action (ADI) finished second with 23 seats, according to provisional results announced by the National Electoral Commission.
São Tomé election leaves no party with majority
The result means no party has enough seats to govern with a parliamentary majority on its own.
The MCI-PS/PUN coalition secured six seats. Meanwhile, the Basta movement won two seats.
Africanews reported that the MLSTP will need support from smaller parties to reach the 28-seat majority threshold.
As a result, talks over the formation of the next government are expected to focus on the smaller parties.
Smaller parties could play key role
The six seats held by MCI-PS/PUN could give the coalition an important role in the negotiations.
Its leader, Domingos Monteiro, said he was open to talks with both major parties, according to Africanews.
He said his group would support the side that commits to improving living standards.
Under São Tomé and Príncipe’s political system, the president appoints the government after legislative elections. However, the government needs parliamentary support to govern.
New government faces economic challenges
The next administration will face several economic and social challenges.
These include unemployment and emigration. Public services, infrastructure and access to water and electricity are also major concerns, according to Africanews.
The São Tomé election therefore leaves negotiations over the next government as the immediate focus.
The MLSTP holds the largest number of seats, but it will need support from other lawmakers to reach a parliamentary majority.