Guinea-Bissau’s opposition plans to paralyze the country on Thursday, claiming President Embalo’s term ends on that date, contradicting a Supreme Court ruling. Embalo announced elections will be delayed until November 30, exacerbating tensions. The government has postponed parliamentary elections until 2024. ECOWAS is attempting to mediate, but opposition parties are resisting engagement, citing bias.
Guinea-Bissau’s opposition has pledged to halt activities across the nation on Thursday amidst a dispute regarding President Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s term expiration. The opposition claims that Embalo’s mandate concludes on February 27, while the Supreme Court has ruled it ends on September 4. Tensions have escalated as Embalo has indicated that elections will not occur until November 30, further complicating the electoral process in this historically unstable country.
The PAI Terra Ranka coalition, which includes the former ruling PAIGC party, has declared that their protests will render Bissau a “dead city.” The government has indefinitely postponed parliamentary elections set for November 2024, citing technical and financial issues. This turmoil follows Embalo’s previous claims of coup attempts during his presidency, exacerbating existing political tensions.
Since taking office, Embalo, a former army general, has faced multiple crises, including the dissolution of an opposition-controlled parliament following violent clashes in December 2023. After these events, he accused the parliament of inaction amid growing unrest. Currently, he is abroad discussing political matters, reflecting the urgency of the situation at home.
The West African regional body ECOWAS has proposed a mission to mediate the ongoing dispute over the electoral timeline. However, opposition factions have refused to engage with ECOWAS, alleging a lack of impartiality in the mission’s approach. This rejection illustrates the deep-seated mistrust between the opposition and the current administration in Guinea-Bissau.
In summary, the political landscape in Guinea-Bissau is fraught with tension as the opposition prepares to challenge President Embalo’s perceived extended term. The controversy surrounding the election schedule has raised concerns about potential unrest, particularly given the country’s history of coups. The involvement of ECOWAS suggests efforts to mediate the situation, though opposition reluctance to engage indicates a complex and precarious path ahead. Ultimately, the outcome of this electoral dispute may significantly impact Guinea-Bissau’s stability and democratic processes.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
