Gambiaj.com – (Bissau, Guinea-Bissau) – Two major opposition coalitions in Guinea-Bissau, the Inclusive Patriotic Alliance Cabás Garandi (API-CG) and PAI-Terra Ranka, have issued a strong protest against the invitation of Umaro Sissoco Embaló to Senegal’s National Day celebrations.

In an open letter addressed to Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and copied to Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, the opposition leaders questioned the legitimacy of Embaló’s presence at the event, citing the expiration of his mandate on February 27, 2025.

The letter, signed by API-CG President Nuno Gomes Nabiam and PAI-Terra Ranka National Director Domingos Simões Pereira, congratulated the Senegalese leadership on the occasion of their national day, highlighting Senegal’s commitment to democratic values.

However, the opposition figures expressed deep concerns over what they described as the “tacit legitimization” of Embaló, whom they accused of disregarding Guinea-Bissau’s constitutional law and obstructing democratic processes.

The opposition leaders pointed out that Embaló had created a political crisis in Guinea-Bissau by refusing to leave office upon the expiration of his mandate, undermining the country’s democratic institutions. They also referenced his controversial decision to expel a high-level ECOWAS mission, arguing that his continued recognition by foreign states risked normalizing what they consider an unconstitutional hold on power.

The letter urged President Faye and Prime Minister Sonko to uphold democratic principles by reconsidering their engagement with Embaló, emphasizing Senegal’s role as a beacon of democratic governance in Africa.

As tensions continue to mount in Guinea-Bissau, the stance of regional leaders, particularly Senegal, may prove crucial in shaping the country’s political future. The opposition’s appeal underscores the broader challenges facing West African democracies amid concerns over constitutional crises and political legitimacy.