Guinea-Bissau Opposition Threatens Nationwide Paralysis Amid Election Dispute

Guinea-Bissau’s opposition is set to disrupt the country’s operations over a conflict concerning President Embalo’s term expiration. They argue it ends on Thursday, while the Supreme Court states it continues until September 4, leading to potential unrest. Elections have been postponed to November 30, escalating tensions in a politically unstable nation.

The opposition in Guinea-Bissau has declared their intention to incapacitate the nation on Thursday amid a disagreement regarding the expiration of President Umaro Sissoco Embalo’s five-year term. They assert that his mandate concludes on the specified date, in contrast to the Supreme Court of Justice, which maintains that it lasts until September 4. This conflict exacerbates existing tensions regarding the electoral schedule, which poses risks of unrest in a country known for its political instability.

President Embalo announced that both presidential and legislative elections would be postponed until November 30, further complicating the electoral timeline. The opposition coalition, which comprises the PAI Terra Ranka and Cabaz Garandi groups, has vowed to “paralyse the country completely” on February 27, resulting in a predicted “dead city” atmosphere in Bissau. This declaration follows the government’s indefinite postponement of parliamentary elections, citing technical and financial difficulties as reasons.

Former army general Umaro Sissoco Embalo, who has faced multiple coup attempts during his tenure, dismissed the opposition-controlled parliament after a recent violent incident. He accused parliamentarians of complacency. Meanwhile, he was engaged in discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, following comments from his wife advising against a bid for a second term.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced plans to send a mission to Guinea-Bissau in an effort to mediate the growing political crisis. Nonetheless, the opposition has rebuffed ECOWAS representatives during their visit, citing concerns of bias towards the government. This refusal showcases the deep-rooted distrust and division within the country’s political landscape.

The political situation in Guinea-Bissau is tense, with the opposition threatening nationwide protests over the discrepancies surrounding President Embalo’s term expiration. Delays in scheduling elections only add to the unrest in a nation plagued by a history of political instability. As diplomatic interventions from ECOWAS unfold amidst the turmoil, the potential for further conflict remains a pressing concern for the region.

Original Source: www.usnews.com