Guinea-Bissau delays presidential and parliamentary elections amid ongoing political turmoil

Guinea-Bissau’s scheduled Dec. 6, 2026 presidential and parliamentary elections have been put on hold, with transitional Prime Minister Ilidio Vieira Te’s office saying a new date will be announced only after cabinet deliberations. The postponement stems from the November 2025 military takeover that interrupted vote counting after Umaro Sissoco Embalo and challenger Fernando Dias da Costa both claimed victory. Lawyer Cabi Sanha argues that the lack of party congresses and candidacy filings reflects broader restrictions on political activity, not merely logistical issues.

A recent constitutional referendum expanded presidential powers and reduced parliamentary seats, a move defended by National Transitional Council spokesperson Fernando Vaz but criticized by opposition. Key opposition figures, including PAIGC leader Domingos Simoes Pereira, remain abroad, and ECOWAS-led mediation has not resolved the deadlock. The transitional government plans local elections in 2027, but analysts stress that national polls must occur first to restore constitutional order.