Bissau, Guinea-Bissau – Voters in Guinea-Bissau headed to the polls today to cast their ballots in crucial presidential and parliamentary elections. The outcome will significantly shape the country’s political landscape for years to come.
Incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embaló is seeking a second term in office. The former army general, aged 53, who first won the presidency in 2021, faces stiff competition from 11 other candidates. Embaló is supported by a broad political coalition comprising over 20 different groups.
Analysts predict a close race, particularly between Embaló and Fernando Dias da Costa, a 47-year-old candidate backed by former Prime Minister Domingos Simões Pereira, who finished second in the 2019 presidential election. To secure an outright victory, a candidate must garner more than 50% of the vote. If no candidate reaches this threshold, a second-round runoff election will be held.
In addition to the presidential election, voters are also electing 102 members of parliament. The results of these elections will determine the composition of the National People’s Assembly, Guinea-Bissau’s legislative body.
The pressing issues for voters in Guinea-Bissau include improving living conditions, with a specific focus on enhancing healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Furthermore, citizens are demanding increased job opportunities and comprehensive reforms to combat poverty, corruption, and drug trafficking, which continue to plague the nation.
Initial election results are expected to be announced no later than Thursday. The elections are being closely watched by international observers, who hope for a transparent and peaceful process that reflects the will of the Guinean people.
DZWatch will continue to provide updates as the election results become available.
