Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo Seeks Re-Election…

Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo has declared his candidacy for a second term amidst political turmoil, facing opposition that refuses to recognize him. An ECOWAS delegation departed after receiving expulsion threats from him. Embalo, surrounded by controversies regarding the legitimacy of his first term, is set to hold elections on November 30, 2023, while the opposition prepares mass protests against him.

Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo has announced his intention to run for a second term in the elections scheduled for November, amid ongoing political tensions. The opposition has refused to acknowledge him as the legitimate president, heightening the country’s political crisis. Meanwhile, a delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) recently left the country after facing possible expulsion threats from Embalo.

President Embalo disclosed his candidacy during an airport press conference in Bissau, following international visits to Russia, Azerbaijan, and Hungary. He stated, “I will be a candidate for my own succession.” Guinea-Bissau’s constitution permits a five-year presidential term that is renewable once, a provision Embalo is seeking to utilize. However, there are disputes regarding the legitimacy and duration of his current term, according to the opposition.

The announcement of his candidacy risks further escalating existing tensions in Guinea-Bissau, a nation with a history of political instability and multiple coups since its independence from Portugal over five decades ago. Embalo was elected on November 24, 2019, and took office on February 27, 2020; however, the opposition contests his electoral victory, causing confusion over the legality of his term.

The president has declared that the next election will take place on November 30 and insists he will remain in office until then. The opposition has asserted that they do not recognize Embalo’s presidency and are preparing for widespread protests and strikes, awaiting the outcome of the ECOWAS mission.

Over the past three years, Embalo has survived two attempts to overthrow him, the latest occurring in December 2023. After this incident, which involved a conflict between the national and presidential guards, he dissolved the opposition-controlled parliament, citing its inaction. In a recent diplomatic meeting, Embalo discussed strengthening economic and security ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, reflecting a shift towards Russia as a security partner for several African nations.

In summary, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s announcement to seek re-election amidst significant political challenges highlights the contentious atmosphere in Guinea-Bissau. The refusal of the opposition to recognize his presidency poses risks of escalating tensions, particularly as planned protests loom. The ECOWAS commission’s involvement reflects attempts to mediate the crisis, yet questions remain regarding the legitimacy of Embalo’s current term and the overall stability of governance in the country.

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