President Umaro Sissoco Embaló confirmed he expelled the ECOWAS mission from Guinea-Bissau, asserting national authority amid a political crisis. He is focused on conducting elections scheduled for November 30 and rejects calls for a national unity government. Tensions between Embaló and political oppositions have intensified, as he warns against being called a former president.
President Umaro Sissoco Embaló confirmed on the night of March 3 that he issued the expulsion order for the high-level ECOWAS mission in Bissau, which aimed to address the country’s political crisis. He stated, “I was the one who kicked out that ECOWAS mission… it’s not a republic of bananas,” highlighting that such missions must present a roadmap approved by the President.
Embaló emphasized that the ECOWAS mission lacks decision-making power over him, asserting that the current Government will organize the legislative and presidential elections set for November 30. He firmly rejected proposals for a national unity government, declaring, “never again” will an ECOWAS mission return to Guinea-Bissau.
The President referenced the challenges faced by his predecessor, José Mário Vaz, who confronted harsh actions from ECOWAS in 2019. In response to the situation, the Inclusive Patriotic Alliance (API) and Platforma da Inclusive Alliance (PAI) have referred to Embaló as the former president in a recent joint statement, criticizing the expulsion of the mission.
In light of this, Embaló issued a strong warning, acknowledging the statement from both political coalitions and expressing that they have crossed a line by labeling him a former president. He remarked, “I will behave like your former President of the Republic,” indicating that he will respond accordingly to the political dynamic introduced by these coalitions.
Embaló further noted that the members of the API-Cabas Garandi should refrain from antagonizing him, as they are familiar with his leadership style and capabilities, reiterating the importance of unity and collaboration in the nation’s governance.
In conclusion, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló’s decision to expel the ECOWAS mission underscores his firm stance on national sovereignty. He intends to assert his authority in organizing upcoming elections and maintains that engaging with opposition coalitions must be approached carefully. The evolving political landscape in Guinea-Bissau will require dialogue and cooperation among its leaders to navigate the current crisis effectively.
Original Source: www.voicegambia.com
