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Fradique Melo de MenezesPresident of Sao Tome and Principe
Date of Birth: 21.03.1942
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Content:
- President of São Tomé and Príncipe
- Military and Political Service
- Hiatus and Return to Politics
- Second Term as President
- São Tomé's Economic Future
President of São Tomé and Príncipe
Early Life and EducationBorn into a mixed-race marriage between a Portuguese father and a São Toméan mother, Fradique de Menezes pursued his education in Portugal and Belgium. Despite obtaining a degree in psychology, he never practiced the profession.
Military and Political Service
Menezes served in the Portuguese military in Mozambique, then a Portuguese colony. After São Tomé's independence in 1975, he joined the Movement for the Liberation of São Tomé and Príncipe (MLSTP). In the 1980s, he held diplomatic posts, including Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Hiatus and Return to Politics
In the 1990s, Menezes briefly left politics and ventured into entrepreneurship. He re-entered the political arena in 2001, becoming president for the first time.
Second Term as President
In 2011, Menezes was re-elected as president with a significant margin of victory. Emphasizing the importance of collective effort, he stated, "The development of the country concerns us all. Now, we must roll up our sleeves."
São Tomé's Economic Future
As São Tomé is poised to become an oil exporter in the coming years, Menezes' presidency will navigate the country's transition into a major energy provider.
