Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo to Seek Second Term Amid Political Strife

President Umaro Sissoco Embalo has confirmed his candidacy for a second presidential term in Guinea-Bissau, despite significant political opposition and claims from rival parties that he is an illegitimate leader. His announcement comes after the departure of an ECOWAS delegation aimed at resolving the ongoing political crisis. The opposition plans to protest, asserting that his term expired earlier this year, even as Embalo navigates international relations for support.

BISSAU, Guinea-Bissau (AP) — President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau has announced his candidacy for a second term in November 2025, amidst ongoing political tensions with opposition parties that do not recognize his presidency. This announcement follows the departure of an ECOWAS delegation aiming to mediate the political crisis, which left the country after facing threats of expulsion from Embalo.

Embalo, who dissolved the opposition-majority parliament late last year, made his announcement at Bissau airport after travels to Russia, Azerbaijan, and Hungary. He stated, “I will be a candidate for my own succession.” According to Guinea-Bissau’s governing laws, he is eligible to run for a second five-year term, despite opposition claims that his first term expired earlier this year.

The situation in Guinea-Bissau has become increasingly precarious, with the nation having experienced numerous coups since its independence over five decades ago. Embalo won the 2019 election but faced fierce opposition that has challenged his legitimacy, claiming his term should have ended on February 27, 2025, although the Supreme Court ruled it extends until September 2025.

The announced election date is set for November 30, 2025, while opposition leaders have stated their refusal to recognize Embalo as the legitimate president. They have indicated plans for protests and strikes, pending the outcome of the ECOWAS’s efforts at resolution. Notably, Embalo has survived two attempted overthrows in the past three years, highlighting the volatility of his administration.

Recently, Embalo engaged in discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding potential economic and security collaboration, reflecting a shift in alliances within African governance as Russia gains prominence over traditional partners such as France and the United States.

In conclusion, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s declaration of his intention to run for a second term amidst a backdrop of political strife in Guinea-Bissau underscores the complex dynamics at play in the nation’s governance. The opposition’s challenge to his legitimacy complicates an already volatile situation, with potential protests on the horizon. Embalo’s engagements with international partners further illustrate his strategy amid this crisis.

Original Source: halifax.citynews.ca