The tiny West African nation woke up Monday to a full-blown political crisis: two presidential candidates, zero official numbers, and both swearing they’ve already won Sunday’s election.
Victory Speeches Without Votes Counted
First came Fernando Dias’s camp. Late Sunday night, his team declared outright victory, saying their internal tallies showed the opposition had crushed the incumbent.
Hours later, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló’s supporters fired back: “Not only did we win we crossed 50% and there will be no second round.”
Why This Is Dangerous
Guinea-Bissau has suffered nine coups since independence. No elected president has ever peacefully handed power to another. A winner claiming victory before the electoral commission speaks is the exact spark that has ignited chaos here in the past.
The Backstory Fueling the Fire
- The real opposition heavyweight, Domingos Simões Pereira, was barred from running over paperwork issues a move many called a stitch-up.
- Fernando Dias became the surprise unity candidate for the powerful PAIGC party.
- Embaló is trying to become the first leader in 30 years to win re-election.
Streets Tense, Soldiers Watching
Security has been stepped up around key buildings in Bissau. Citizens are stocking up on essentials, remembering how quickly disputed votes have turned violent before.
The electoral commission has promised preliminary results “in the coming days.” Until then, Guinea-Bissau holds its breath wondering whether the next announcement brings celebration… or another chapter of turmoil.
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