President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau has announced his candidacy for a second term in the upcoming November elections, contradicting earlier commitments to step down. His decision has intensified political tensions, especially regarding disagreements over the duration of his current term and postponed elections. Mr. Embalo plans to consult with political parties ahead of issuing a presidential decree regarding electoral matters.
Umaro Sissoco Embalo, the President of Guinea-Bissau, has declared his intention to seek re-election this November, reversing his earlier commitment to step down. Following his visit to Russia, Azerbaijan, and Hungary, he confirmed at an airport briefing, “I will be a candidate in my own succession.” His announcement has potential implications for the political landscape in the West African nation, historically prone to coups and political unrest.
Tensions have escalated between Mr. Embalo and opposition factions regarding his current term, which began in 2020. The opposition asserts that his five-year tenure concluded at the end of February, while the Supreme Court of Justice has ruled that it extends until September 4. Furthermore, Mr. Embalo’s decision to postpone presidential and legislative elections to November 30 has caused discontent, as these were initially expected to occur in November 2024.
In a recent statement, Mr. Embalo indicated his intention to consult political parties before announcing further electoral plans, saying, “I will talk to the political parties first about the forthcoming elections, and then I will issue a presidential decree.” Having inherited a complex political situation, he faces significant challenges, including claims of two attempted coups during his administration.
The 52-year-old president revealed that he had initially been persuaded by his wife not to pursue another term. This underscores the delicate balance of personal and political considerations in his decision to run for re-election.
In summary, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s announcement to run for a second term has provoked tensions within Guinea-Bissau’s political environment. His statements regarding his term’s duration and the delay of upcoming elections have further complicated the situation. The president’s position remains precarious as he navigates opposition demands and internal disputes within a historically tumultuous political context.
Original Source: gazettengr.com
