President Umaro Sissoco Embaló has reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining “discipline and order” in Guinea-Bissau, following the detention of several opposition figures accused of attempting to organize protests in the capital.
“We cannot allow anyone to disrupt public order and the peace of our citizens.
No one has the right to create disorder in this country,” President Embaló declared emphatically during a press briefing in Bissau on Saturday.
The president’s remarks came in the wake of escalating political tensions, fueled by the recent postponement of parliamentary elections originally scheduled for November 24.
Opposition parties have criticized the delay, accusing the government of using it as a tactic to “buy time” and prolong its hold on power.
The arrests of opposition leaders on Thursday, which coincided with their plans to stage demonstrations across various neighborhoods in Bissau, have drawn mixed reactions.
While the government defends the move as necessary to preserve public safety, critics view it as an effort to suppress dissent and silence political opponents.
The delayed legislative elections are seen as a critical test for Guinea-Bissau’s fragile democracy.
The country, often mired in political instability, has struggled to build lasting institutions since gaining independence in 1974.
The opposition’s accusations against the ruling administration have only deepened the divide, heightening fears of further unrest.
Observers note that Embaló’s strong stance on law and order signals his intent to assert control over a volatile political landscape.
However, with public sentiment on edge and international scrutiny mounting, the president faces significant challenges in balancing governance with the need for inclusivity and dialogue.
As Guinea-Bissau navigates this turbulent period, all eyes remain on the government’s next steps, with hopes that measures to ensure stability will also pave the way for free and fair elections.
