Umaro Sissoco Embalo, President of Guinea-Bissau, has declared his intention to run for a second term, moving away from previous assurances to resign. His campaign raises issues regarding the end of his current five-year term and delayed elections, with potential opposition tensions becoming exacerbated. Discussions with political parties are to follow before the newly scheduled elections in November.
BISSAU (Reuters) – President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau announced on Monday his intention to seek re-election in November, reneging on previous commitments to resign. This declaration raises concerns regarding the timing of his current term’s conclusion and the delays in elections.
Embalo made his announcement after returning from a trip to Russia, Azerbaijan, and Hungary, stating, “I will be a candidate in my own succession.” His announcement contradicts the opposition’s assertion that his five-year term ended in February, while the Supreme Court of Justice has determined it will conclude on September 4.
Tensions have further escalated due to Embalo’s decision to postpone presidential and legislative elections until November 30. Originally slated for November 2024, the parliamentary elections were delayed indefinitely due to cited technical and financial reasons, disrupting the electoral schedule.
The President remarked, “I will talk to the political parties first about the forthcoming elections, and then I will issue a presidential decree.” As a former army general, Embalo took office amidst a backdrop of longstanding political instability, with Guinea-Bissau having a history of coups since its independence in 1974.
Embalo reported that two coup attempts occurred during his presidency, the most recent in December 2023. He previously indicated that his wife advised against his decision to pursue a second term.
In summary, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s announcement of his candidacy for a second term has sparked renewed tensions over electoral timelines and political opposition. The complexities surrounding his current term’s duration and the delayed election dates underscore the ongoing political challenges within Guinea-Bissau. As the situation unfolds, further discussions among political parties are anticipated prior to the elections.
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