President Umaro Sissoco Embalo Seeks Re-Election in Guinea-Bissau

Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo has announced his bid for re-election, with elections now set for November 30 following delays. Opposition claims about the expiration of his term have sparked protests, which were curtailed by security forces. The country faces ongoing political instability since its independence.

On Monday, Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo announced his intention to seek re-election, despite logistical and financial issues causing a delay in the elections to November 30. Returning from a state visit to Russia, President Embalo expressed confidence in his campaign, stating, “I will be a candidate, without a doubt, and I am going to win right from the first round.”

Embalo, who assumed office on February 27, 2020, after a contentious election, is challenged by the opposition which argues that his term ended last Thursday. This contention led to a strike organized by opposition groups; however, the impact was limited by the presence of security forces in the capital Bissau.

Guinea-Bissau, with a population of approximately two million, has endured persistent political turmoil, including numerous coups since gaining independence in 1974. In December 2023, amid violent clashes, Embalo dissolved the opposition-controlled parliament, labeling the events as an attempted coup. He had previously announced early legislative elections for November 2024 but subsequently postponed them indefinitely via presidential decree.

In summary, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo has declared his candidacy for a second term in Guinea-Bissau’s upcoming elections, rescheduled for November 30 due to various challenges. His administration has faced significant opposition, questioning his term’s legitimacy. The political landscape remains fragile, as the nation grapples with a history of instability and governance crises.

Original Source: newscentral.africa