Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo Announces Reelection Bid

Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo plans to run for a second term, reversing earlier commitments to leave office. This decision has sparked conflicts over the duration of his current term amidst postponed elections originally set for November 2024. Embalo, a former army general, has faced attempts on his presidency and now seeks discussions with political parties before issuing a formal decree regarding the elections.

Umaro Sissoco Embalo, the President of Guinea-Bissau, announced his intention to seek a second term in the upcoming November elections, which contradicts his previous commitment to step down. His announcement may exacerbate ongoing tensions regarding the conclusion of his current term and the controversy surrounding delayed electoral processes. After returning from a diplomatic mission in Russia, Azerbaijan, and Hungary, Embalo stated, “I will be a candidate in my own succession.”

There are disagreements between Embalo and the political opposition regarding the expiration of his five-year term which commenced in 2020. While the opposition claims his term ended in February, the Supreme Court of Justice has stated that it will conclude on September 4. Compounding these disputes, Embalo has declared that the presidential and legislative elections will not take place until November 30, 2025.

Originally slated for November 2024, the legislative elections have been indefinitely delayed due to technical and financial challenges, disrupting the electoral timetable significantly. Embalo noted, “I will talk to the political parties first about the forthcoming elections, and then I will issue a presidential decree.” As a 52-year-old former army general, he faces a complex political landscape that has been marred by coups and unrest since the nation gained independence from Portugal in 1974.

Embalo has reported two attempts on his presidency, the most recent occurring in December 2023. Furthermore, he had previously mentioned that his wife persuaded him against pursuing a second term. The political climate remains precarious as tensions continue to mount regarding his commitment to governance and electoral integrity.

In summary, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s announcement to run for a second term raises significant questions about the political landscape of Guinea-Bissau. His decision contradicts earlier promises, igniting disputes regarding the timing of elections and the legitimacy of his current term. As the nation grapples with recurring instability and the implications of postponed elections, the situation warrants close attention moving forward.

Original Source: www.usnews.com