Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo has declared his candidacy for a second term in November, contrary to his earlier promise to step down. His current term’s end date is contested, leading to tensions with the opposition. Elections, delayed until November 30, have drawn criticism, and Embalo has faced challenges during his presidency, including coup attempts.
BISSAU (Reuters) – President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau announced on Monday his intention to seek re-election in November, reversing his previous commitment to step down. This decision may escalate existing tensions regarding the conclusion of his current term and the delay of scheduled elections. His statement came following visits to Russia, Azerbaijan, and Hungary, where he asserted, “I will be a candidate in my own succession.”
Embalo has faced opposition regarding the timing of his five-year term, which commenced in 2020. The opposition claims that it concluded in February, while the Supreme Court of Justice maintains that it will end on September 4. Furthermore, there is dissatisfaction over his announcement to postpone presidential and legislative elections until November 30, which were originally scheduled for 2024.
The postponement is attributed to technical and financial issues, resulting in a disrupted electoral timeline. On Monday, Embalo stated, “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, he has navigated a prolonged political crisis in a nation plagued by coups and instability since gaining independence in 1974.
Embalo has reported two attempted coups during his administration, the most recent occurring in December 2023. Despite his commitments to public service, he revealed that his wife had previously persuaded him against pursuing a second term in office.
In conclusion, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s announcement to pursue re-election in November represents a significant shift from his earlier intentions to step down. This decision is likely to exacerbate tensions regarding the expiration of his term and the delayed electoral process. As political opposition grows, the implications for Guinea-Bissau’s stability remain to be seen.
Original Source: www.thestar.com.my
