The military authorities governing Guinea-Bissau have announced that former President Umaro Sissoco Embaló will not be allowed to return to the country in the immediate future, saying the necessary security conditions for his return have not yet been established.
The decision came three days after Embaló announced that he would seek another term as president in elections scheduled for December 6, 2026.
In a statement issued by the military’s high command on October 1, the authorities said that “the security requirements necessary for the return of the former president have not been fulfilled at this time.”
The military said the decision was intended to “protect public security” and that, under the current circumstances, it could not guarantee that Embaló would be able to return safely.
On September 28, Embaló announced that he would contest the presidential election, with his supporters saying he could return to Guinea-Bissau on October 4, 2026, to begin preparations for his campaign.
Guinea-Bissau has been under military rule for about 10 months after soldiers overthrew Embaló’s government. Talks on restoring democratic governance in the West African country are ongoing.
KIGALI TIMES