Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo to Seek Reelection

Umaro Sissoco Embalo, President of Guinea-Bissau, has reversed his prior commitment to step down, announcing his candidacy for a second term in November. His statements have intensified tensions regarding the timing of elections and the conclusion of his current term, amid ongoing opposition disputes. The elections, previously set for November 2024, have been postponed, causing unrest among citizens.

Umaro Sissoco Embalo, President of Guinea-Bissau, announced on Monday his decision to pursue reelection in November, contradicting earlier promises to step down. This move is likely to escalate tensions regarding the conclusion of his current term and the delays in the electoral process. Following visits to Russia, Azerbaijan, and Hungary, he declared, “I will be a candidate in my own succession.”

Embalo faces opposition assertions regarding when his existing five-year term, which commenced in 2020, is set to conclude. While the opposition claims it expired in February, the Supreme Court has determined that it runs until September 4. Moreover, the postponement of presidential and legislative elections, now scheduled for November 30 due to financial and technical issues, has caused significant dissatisfaction among citizens.

Emboldened by his recent engagements, President Embalo emphasized the need to consult political parties before finalizing the electoral process and indicated that he would issue a presidential decree following these discussions. Since taking office, he has navigated a challenging political environment defined by coups and instability, claiming to have survived two attempted overthrows during his term.

Previously, Embalo had expressed reluctance to seek another term, attributing this hesitation to personal advice from his spouse, who encouraged him against such a decision.

In summary, President Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s announcement to run for a second term in Guinea-Bissau, despite earlier vows to step down, signals potential unrest as it affects the political landscape ahead of delayed elections. The contrasting views on the term’s expiration and the planned election dates suggest a politically volatile environment as the nation prepares for electoral changes.

Original Source: www.marketscreener.com