Presidential election in Guinea-Bissau: the ECOWAS recognizes the victory of Umaro Sissoco Embalo

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Almost four months after the second round of the presidential election on December 29, 2019, the West African organization finally recognizes the victory of Umaro Sissoco Embalo. A victory for the Madem candidate announced by the National Election Commission, but still contested before the Supreme Court by the side of his PAIGC rival, Domingos Simoes Pereira.

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With our regional correspondent in Dakar,  Charlotte Idrac

"  Faced with the persistence of the blockage  " , the West African organization, mediator in Guinea-Bissau, wants to break the deadlock. It must be said that Umaro Sissoco Embalo has been waiting for this recognition since January 1, the date of the announcement of the provisional results. He has since toured his supporters on the continent, including Senegalese President Macky Sall. And so it is now recognized by the heads of state and government of the ECOWAS.

In a statement, published this Thursday morning, the West African organization "  notes that the National Election Commission has proclaimed the final results of the presidential election three times, even if the misunderstandings with the Supreme Court have not resolved electoral disputes  ”, and takes this decision“  after an in-depth analysis of the country's political situation  ”.

It is therefore a diplomatic victory for Umaro Sissoco Embalo, who had organized his own inauguration last February in a hotel in Bissau before settling in the presidential palace, with the displayed support of the military. A "  coup  " from the point of view of his adversaries.

Towards new legislative ?

However, this recognition is not total since it does not concern his government. The ECOWAS asked Umaro Sissoco Embalo to designate a new Prime Minister and a new government no later than May 22, "in  accordance with the Constitution  ". The Basic Law effectively provides for the appointment of a Prime Minister from the majority in Parliament. A majority acquired at PAIGC and its allies.

Umaro Sissoco Embalo dismissed the government of Aristide Gomes, and appointed a new team in his place, led by Nuno Nabiam. This Wednesday, the president now recognized by his West African peers discussed the organization of new legislative elections. The heads of state and government of the ECOWAS also stress "  the need to immediately initiate a reform of the Constitution, which will be subject to a referendum in six months to ensure the stability of the country."  "

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• Guinea-Bissau
• Umaro Sissoco Embalo
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