Former Guinean President Umaro Sissoco Embaló has announced his candidacy for the presidential election in Guiné-Bissau, scheduled for December 6. In an interview with Jeune Afrique, Embaló confirmed his intention to run, stating that he will be a candidate in the upcoming election. This announcement comes nearly a week after he revealed his plans to return to Guiné-Bissau on October 4.
Embaló's candidacy is seen as a significant development in the country's politics, especially after he was ousted in a coup led by General Horta N'Tam Inta-a on November 26, 2025. According to Jeune Afrique, Embaló believes that General Inta-a will respect the terms of the transition charter and not run for president, paving the way for his own candidacy. The general's transition council has announced the election dates, and Embaló's party, Madem G15, is set to hold a congress on October 16-17.
Embaló's return to Guiné-Bissau is expected to be a significant event, with the former president calling for a peaceful and fraternal reception. He emphasized the need to put national interests and stability above political differences, urging his compatriots to preserve social peace and strengthen unity. In a message on social media, Embaló stated that his return is a gesture of confidence in the country's future and a desire to reconnect with Guinean society.
The opposition had considered the coup that ousted Embaló as a "ceremonial coup," as it occurred on the eve of the announcement of the provisional results of the presidential election, which they claimed was won by Fernando Dias da Costa. Embaló's candidacy has sparked mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a move to regain power. The general's transition council has approved a new constitution that strengthens the powers of the President.
Embaló's campaign is expected to be boosted by the support of the Plataforma Republicana, a coalition of over a dozen parties. His party, Madem G15, will hold a congress on October 16-17, which will likely pave the way for the launch of his campaign. The election is seen as a critical moment for Guiné-Bissau's stability and future.
General Horta Inta-a, who led the coup against Embaló, has announced that he will not run for president, citing the transition charter. However, some opposition groups have expressed concerns that the general's transition council is trying to facilitate Embaló's return to power. The situation remains tense, with various factions vying for influence in the country.
The international community is closely watching the developments in Guiné-Bissau, with many calling for a peaceful and transparent electoral process. Embaló's candidacy has added a new layer of complexity to the country's politics, and his return is expected to have significant implications for the country's future. The election outcome will likely determine the course of Guiné-Bissau's stability and development.
Key points
- Former Guinean President Umaro Sissoco Embaló has announced his candidacy for the December 6 presidential election.
- Embaló's return to Guiné-Bissau is expected to be a significant event, with implications for the country's stability and future.
- The election outcome will likely determine the course of Guiné-Bissau's stability and development.
