Guinea-Bissau President Embalo Declares Candidacy for Second Term

President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau has declared his candidacy for a second term in the November elections, contradicting his previous statements about stepping down. This decision has exacerbated tensions regarding the end of his current term and the delayed electoral process, with significant opposition regarding the legitimacy of his tenure.

Umaro Sissoco Embalo, the President of Guinea-Bissau, announced on Monday that he will seek a second term in the upcoming November elections, contrary to his previous commitments to step down. His declaration, made following a trip to Russia, Azerbaijan, and Hungary, has raised concerns regarding the duration of his current term and the scheduled elections. The president asserted, “I will be a candidate in my own succession.”

Embalo is currently facing opposition disputes regarding the end date of his five-year term, which commenced in 2020. While the opposition claims his term concluded at the end of February, the Supreme Court of Justice ruled it will last until September 4. Additionally, there is frustration over the announcement that presidential and legislative elections are not set to occur until November 30 this year, having previously been slated for November 2024 but postponed due to technical and financial issues.

The 52-year-old former army general, who has confronted a persistent political deadlock in a country plagued by coups since its independence in 1974, indicated he had previously contemplated not running again due to his wife’s advice. The president also mentioned two attempts to overthrow him during his term, the last occurring in December 2023. Embalo expressed intentions to consult political parties regarding the upcoming elections before issuing a presidential decree.

President Umaro Sissoco Embalo has announced his intention to run for a second term in the November elections, reversing his earlier pledge to depart from office. The political climate remains tense, especially regarding the duration of his current term and the scheduled electoral timetable. His leadership continues to be scrutinized amid past coup attempts and ongoing opposition challenges.

Original Source: www.usnews.com