Umaro Sissoco Embalo, the President of Guinea-Bissau, declared his candidacy for a second term amid political tensions and opposition disputes regarding his legitimacy. A recent ECOWAS delegation left after facing threats from him, and the political crisis deepens as the opposition prepares for protests. Notably, Embalo faces controversy over the legitimacy of his tenure following two coup attempts and an ongoing power struggle.
Umaro Sissoco Embalo, the President of Guinea-Bissau, has announced his intention to run for a second term in the upcoming elections scheduled for November. This decision comes amidst significant political turmoil, as an opposition coalition refuses to acknowledge his presidency. Recently, a delegation from ECOWAS, which was sent to mediate the political crisis, departed after reportedly facing threats of expulsion from Embalo.
Embalo, whose first term is marked by controversy, made his candidacy known while at the airport in the capital, Bissau, following visits to Russia, Azerbaijan, and Hungary. According to the constitution, he is allowed to seek a second consecutive term; however, the opposition contends that his initial term has already concluded. The political landscape remains volatile as tensions rise surrounding his candidacy.
The President’s electoral mandate commenced on February 27, 2020, after winning the election on November 24, 2019. Nonetheless, the Supreme Court’s delayed recognition of his victory until September 4 complicates the legitimacy of his electoral term, leading opposition leaders to assert that his tenure should have ended in February 2023. As such, Embalo has scheduled the next elections for November 30, asserting he will remain in office until then despite opposition claims.
Over the past three years, Embalo has endured two coup attempts, most recently in December 2023, which led him to dissolve the opposition-controlled parliament, citing its inaction. Furthermore, he has engaged with international allies, including discussions on economic and security partnerships with Russian President Vladimir Putin, amid a shift in security alliances among African nations.
Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s announcement to seek a second presidential term amid significant opposition and political instability highlights the precarious nature of Guinea-Bissau’s governance. While he legally qualifies to run for reelection, the legitimacy of his current term remains contentious. As tensions escalate between the opposition and the government, the upcoming elections are poised to be crucial for the nation’s political future.
Original Source: apnews.com
