President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau declared his intention to run for a second term in November, contradicting his earlier promise to step down. His term’s end is contested, with opposition claiming it ended in February and the Supreme Court stating it concludes on September 4. Delays in elections have added to political tensions within the nation.
BISSAU (Reuters) – President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau announced on Monday his candidacy for a second term in the upcoming November elections. This decision marks a reversal of his previous commitment to step down, raising potential concerns about tensions surrounding the termination of his current term and the delays in holding elections.
Following a diplomatic visit to Russia, Azerbaijan, and Hungary, President Embalo stated, “I will be a candidate in my own succession.” His remarks come amid conflicting views regarding the expiration of his current five-year term, which began in 2020. The political opposition claims his term ended in February, while the Supreme Court of Justice asserts it concludes on September 4.
The postponement of both presidential and legislative elections until November 30 has also led to dissatisfaction among citizens and opposition groups. Originally intended for November 2024, the parliamentary elections were delayed indefinitely, attributed to technical and financial challenges impacting the electoral process.
“I will talk to the political parties first about the forthcoming elections, and then I will issue a presidential decree,” said President Embalo on Monday. The 52-year-old former army general has faced significant political challenges in a nation often impacted by coups, inheriting a legacy of unrest since its independence from Portugal in 1974.
Embalo has reported two attempts on his life to overthrow him during his presidency, with the most recent incident occurring in December 2023. Notably, he previously stated that his wife advised him against seeking another term.
In conclusion, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s announcement to run for a second term has generated significant debate about the implications for political stability in Guinea-Bissau. His reversal on stepping down may exacerbate existing tensions regarding the electoral timeline and the legitimacy of his current term. This situation continues to unfold against the backdrop of the country’s turbulent political landscape.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
