Guinea-Bissau’s military junta has blocked former President Umaro Sissoco Embalo from returning to the country, citing security concerns and the need to maintain public order and social stability.
Embalo, who has been living in exile in Morocco, had announced earlier this week that he planned to return to Guinea-Bissau and contest the presidential election scheduled for Dec. 6.
The military high command in a statement on Thursday, said security conditions were not suitable for Embalo’s return.
READ ALSO:ECOWAS Urges Guinea-Bissau To Release Detained Opposition Leaders
It also confirmed that restrictions on political demonstrations and public gatherings remain in force.
The decision comes amid renewed political tensions in the West African country, including reports of unrest within the presidential guard earlier this week.
The army seized power days after the November presidential election, overthrowing Embalo and suspending the electoral process.
The junta has said the Dec. 6 election is intended to restore civilian rule, although it remains unclear whether the dispute over Embalo’s return will affect the electoral timetable.
Guinea-Bissau has experienced five coups and numerous attempted takeovers since gaining independence from Portugal in 1974.
Africanews
