Guinea-Bissau's junta announced on Thursday that security conditions are not met for the return of exiled former President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, who had planned to return from Morocco and run in upcoming elections. The junta, which seized power in a coup last November, cited national security, public order, and social stability concerns.
The coup, which occurred just days after a presidential vote, overthrew Embalo and suspended the electoral process. Embalo had told AFP that he would stand in elections slated for December 6. However, the junta, established under General Horta N'Tam, a close associate of Embalo, has deemed the conditions not right for his return.
The junta's decision was based on an analysis of the national situation and the current security environment. Despite N'Tam's statement last week that every Guinean is free to return to their country if they have nothing to be ashamed of, the military high command determined that the necessary security conditions are not met to guarantee Embalo's return.
Activists had posted on social media that they were planning for Embalo's return from exile in Morocco on Sunday. However, the junta's announcement may affect the electoral timetable, which aims to restore civilian rule. The junta reiterated that restrictions on demonstrations, gatherings, and meetings for political purposes remain in place.
Guinea-Bissau has experienced five coups and numerous attempted putsches since independence from Portugal in 1974. The nation's crippling poverty and political chaos have made it a fertile ground for corruption and drug smuggling. Many observers suspected Embalo of orchestrating the November 26 coup to halt an election process he appeared to be losing.
The military justified its move by stating it was ensuring national order following the discovery of a plot to destabilise the country involving drug lords. N'Tam, who serves as transitional president, is barred from running for president in the election under the country's transitional charter.
On Tuesday, Guinea-Bissau authorities urged calm after reports of unrest within the country's presidential guard. The Portuguese-speaking country, wedged between Senegal and Guinea, continues to face significant challenges in maintaining stability and security.
Key points
- The junta's decision was based exclusively on grounds of national security, public order, and the prevention of situations likely to compromise social stability and tranquillity.
- Embalo had planned to return from Morocco and run in upcoming elections slated for December 6.
- The junta, established under General Horta N'Tam, has set the upcoming date for the presidential and legislative elections meant to restore civilian rule.
