Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo Declares Candidacy for Second Term

Umaro Sissoco Embalo, President of Guinea-Bissau, has declared his candidacy for a second term in the upcoming November elections, contradicting his prior promise to step down. This has ignited tensions with the opposition regarding the timeline of his current term and the scheduled elections, which have been postponed, raising concerns about the political stability of the country.

Umaro Sissoco Embalo, the President of Guinea-Bissau, announced on Monday his intention to seek re-election in November, reversing his previous commitment to step down. This decision raises concerns regarding the timing of his term’s conclusion and the postponement of elections, which has created friction with the opposition in the politically unstable nation. Embalo made the announcement following an overseas trip to several countries, asserting, “I will be a candidate in my own succession.”

The political climate is tense in Guinea-Bissau, as disputes have arisen over the duration of Embalo’s current term, which commenced in 2020. The opposition argues that his term expired in late February, whereas the Supreme Court of Justice has ruled that it ends on September 4. Furthermore, discontent has grown among citizens after the president declared that both presidential and legislative elections would not occur until November 30.

Originally set for November 2024, the parliamentary elections have been indefinitely postponed due to technical and financial issues. “I will talk to the political parties first about the forthcoming elections, and then I will issue a presidential decree,” Embalo stated. Having previously been a general, he assumed leadership during a period characterized by prolonged political discord following Guinea-Bissau’s independence from Portugal in 1974.

President Embalo has acknowledged enduring two attempted coups during his administration, the most recent occurring in December 2023. Last year, he indicated that his spouse had persuaded him against running for a second term, which adds a layer of complexity to his current decision.

In summary, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s announcement to run for a second term is a significant development in Guinea-Bissau’s political landscape. His previous commitment to step down, combined with ongoing tensions over electoral timelines and term limits, could exacerbate the already precarious situation in this coup-prone nation. As the nation approaches potential elections, the reaction from opposition parties and the public will be crucial.

Original Source: www.marketscreener.com