Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo declared his candidacy for a second presidential term amid political unrest. The opposition contests his legitimacy and plans to protest against his rule. Embalo’s term has been complicated by legal disputes and parliament dissolution, with upcoming elections scheduled for November 30.
President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau has announced his intention to seek a second term in the upcoming elections scheduled for November 30. This declaration comes amid heightened political tensions, as the opposition challenges his legitimacy and refuses to recognize his presidency. The rift escalated after Embalo dissolved the opposition-controlled parliament in late 2023, further complicating the political landscape.
Embalo made his announcement at the capital’s airport in Bissau following a diplomatic trip to Russia, Azerbaijan, and Hungary. He stated, “I will be a candidate for my own succession,” emphasizing his commitment to running for re-election. Although Guinea-Bissau’s constitution allows for a renewal of the presidential term, the opposition contends that his current term has already concluded.
The ongoing political struggle has historical roots, as Guinea-Bissau has experienced numerous coups since its independence over five decades ago. Embalo initially took office after winning the election on November 24, 2019, with his presidency officially starting on February 27, 2020. The opposition claims that his term ended in February 2023, while the Supreme Court ruled it extended until September 4, raising further disputes.
Tensions have intensified as opposition leaders are mobilizing for potential mass protests and strikes in response to Embalo’s continued presidency, despite waiting to see the outcome of the ECOWAS mission aimed at mediating the crisis. Embalo has faced two assassination attempts in recent years, with the most recent occurring in December 2023, prompting him to eliminate parliament’s influence, which he has criticized as ineffective.
During his diplomatic engagements, Embalo has sought to bolster economic and security partnerships, notably meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This is indicative of shifting alliances, as Russia has become increasingly prominent in providing security support to African nations, allowing it to replace traditional allies such as France and the United States.
President Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s announcement to run for a second term has intensified political strife in Guinea-Bissau, amidst contestation from the opposition regarding the legitimacy of his presidency. His ongoing term and recent actions, including dissolving parliament and engaging with international partners, highlight the continuing turbulence in the country’s governance. As the November elections approach, the opposition’s plans for protests pose further challenges to stability.
Original Source: www.mymotherlode.com
