Embalo's Tumultuous Path to Possible Re-election: Stability and Challenges

Umaro Sissoco Embalo aims to win re-election as Guinea-Bissau's president amid ongoing instability and a thriving cocaine trade. Despite multiple attempts to depose him, Embalo is well-positioned for victory due to his main challenger being barred. However, challenges in governance and the volatile economy persist.

Umaro Sissoco Embalo, seeking to become the first incumbent president re-elected in Guinea-Bissau in three decades, faces ongoing instability and a booming cocaine trade in his country. Although his presidency has been marred by coup attempts, including gunfire during a cabinet meeting in 2022, Embalo remains a strong contender for re-election.

Cocaine trafficking in West Africa is reportedly more profitable than ever, with Embalo's legitimacy continuously questioned by opponents who claim he did not win the 2019 election. Despite these challenges, his main rival, Domingos Simoes Pereira, has been barred from the upcoming election, boosting Embalo's chances in the November polls.

Embalo's tenure has seen improvements in infrastructure, yet issues of effective governance persist. As Guinea-Bissau experiences a buoyant cocaine market and political unrest, the nation's economic reliance on volatile cashew exports and potential resources like bauxite and phosphate add to the complexities Embalo faces if re-elected.

(With inputs from agencies.)