Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo Announces Re-Election Bid
Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo has declared his candidacy for a second term in elections scheduled for November, reversing his previous pledge to step aside. This decision has intensified disputes over the validity of his current tenure and the timing of delayed elections, with legislative polls now set for November 30. Despite facing two coup attempts, Embalo continues to navigate a challenging political landscape.
Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo announced his intention to seek re-election in November, reversing previous commitments to step down. This declaration may heighten tensions concerning the end of his current term and the delays in upcoming elections. Upon his return from a trip to Russia, Azerbaijan, and Hungary, Embalo stated, “I will be a candidate in my own succession.”
Embalo’s relationship with the political opposition is strained, particularly regarding the duration of his current five-year term, which commenced in 2020. While Embalo contends that his mandate extends until September 4, opposition members argue that it expired in February. Additionally, frustration has emerged from the announcement that presidential and legislative elections will not occur until November 30, 2023, after having experienced multiple postponements since they were originally set for November 2024.
The indefinite delay of parliamentary elections has sparked concerns, with technical and financial challenges cited as reasons. Embalo remarked, “I will talk to the political parties first about the forthcoming elections, and then I will issue a presidential decree.” At 52 years old and a former army general, Embalo took office amid a long-standing political stalemate in Guinea-Bissau, a nation plagued by coups since its independence in 1974.
He has indicated that there were two attempts on his life during his presidency, the latest occurring in December. Notably, he mentioned that his wife had previously persuaded him against pursuing a second term, indicating his shifting stance on the issue.
In conclusion, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s decision to run for a second term marks a significant shift from his earlier promises to relinquish power. This development is likely to exacerbate existing political tensions amid ongoing disputes regarding the timing of electoral processes in Guinea-Bissau. As the nation approaches critical elections, the potential for further political unrest remains a pressing concern.
Original Source: www.thestar.com.my
