President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau has declared his candidacy for a second term amid political turmoil and opposition resistance. He contends his presidency is legitimate until the elections, scheduled for November 30, 2025. The opposition disputes his term, leading to tensions and potential mass protests. Additionally, Embalo has been engaged in international diplomatic efforts, including discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Umaro Sissoco Embalo, the President of Guinea-Bissau, has announced his intention to seek a second term in the presidential elections scheduled for November 30, 2025. This announcement comes amid significant political tension, as the opposition does not recognize him as the legitimate president. The political landscape has been tumultuous since he dissolved the opposition-controlled parliament in late 2023, further complicating his presidency.
Embalo stated his candidacy at Bissau Airport following official visits to Russia, Azerbaijan, and Hungary. Although the constitution permits him to run for a second term, the opposition argues that his initial term has already concluded. Embalo insists that he will remain in office until the upcoming elections, despite enduring challenges to his authority.
The legal standing of Embalo’s presidency is contentious; he won the election on November 24, 2019, and his term was upheld by the Supreme Court until September 4, 2025, despite opposition claims that his term should have expired in February. Following a recent failed coup attempt in December 2023, Embalo accused the parliament of inaction, leading to its dissolution.
As instability persists in Guinea-Bissau, he has faced threats from opposition leaders who are planning mass protests and strikes. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) recently sent a delegation to mediate, but their visit was abruptly cut short due to threats of expulsion from the president.
Additionally, seeking to strengthen international ties, Embalo engaged with Russian President Vladimir Putin, reflecting a shift in security partnerships from traditional allies to new partners like Russia. This further highlights the geopolitical dynamics influencing Guinea-Bissau as it navigates its ongoing political crisis.
Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s announcement of running for a second term in the midst of political unrest underscores the challenges facing Guinea-Bissau. With a contested legitimacy and rising opposition discontent, the situation remains volatile. The involvement of ECOWAS, along with international diplomatic engagements, suggests a complex intersection of domestic politics and global influence that may impact the upcoming elections.
Original Source: halifax.citynews.ca
