The trial of former Guinean Finance Minister Suleimane Seide and Secretary of State for the Treasury António Monteiro, detained since November 30 for endorsing an $11 million loan to 11 businessmen, was postponed without a new date. On Tuesday, their lawyers and family members demanded a trial date be set as soon as possible and called for their immediate release. Lawyer Luís Vaz Martins criticized the trial's postponement without prior notice and argued for the release of his clients, stating there is no reason to keep them in pre-trial detention now that the investigation phase has concluded and charges have been made. Following these statements, relatives and friends sent a letter to various authorities and organizations describing the detainees' conditions as 'terrible', exacerbated by a general strike of prison guards at the Judicial Police Detention Center in Bissau.

In Guinea-Bissau, despite laws mandating equal rights, women continue to face discrimination regarding access to land. Magda Correia, coordinator of the government project 'Ntene Terra - PARTEMULHER', implemented by the FAO and funded by the European Union, highlights the challenges women face in decision-making, inheritance, and land management due to traditional practices. Isabel Almeida of the women's organization MIGUILAM confirms these restrictions and emphasizes the need for legal awareness and advocacy. Legal expert Vladimir Vieira Fernandes acknowledges the contradiction between the law and traditional practices that deny women land rights. Efforts are being made to change this through awareness campaigns, training, and legal support for women.

The Guinea-Bissau national football team is aiming to progress to the next stage of the African Nations Championship, which will be held in Ivory Coast. This ambition has been expressed on several occasions by the national coach, Baciro Candé.

Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embaló accused the National People's Assembly of causing its own dissolution, while opposition leader Domingos Simões Pereira demanded clarification on the December 1st shootings, which were used as a basis to dissolve the Assembly. Embaló highlighted Guinea-Bissau's political and diplomatic capital in 2023, despite challenges such as the war in Ukraine causing price hikes and affecting the cashew nut export campaign. He remains optimistic for 2024, promising attentive governance. Simões Pereira, President of the Parliament and leader of PAIGC, called for a thorough investigation into the December 1st incident.

The year 2023 in Guinea-Bissau was marked by extreme events, from the celebration of legislative elections on June 4 to the dissolution of Parliament by President Umaro Sissoco Embaló on December 4. Embaló dissolved Parliament, leveraging the unprecedented actions of the National Guard, which led to the arrest of Economy and Finance Minister Suleimane Seide and State Secretary of the Treasury António Monteiro. The dissolution was contested by national and international entities, including CEDEAO, CPLP, and the UN Secretary-General. The year also saw the forced resignation of the President of the Supreme Court of Justice, José Pedro Sambú, amid internal conflicts. Additionally, Guinea-Bissau celebrated 50 years of independence in 2023.

In Guinea-Bissau, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló swore in a new presidential-initiative government led by Rui Duarte de Barros, comprising 24 ministers and 9 secretaries of state. The PAI-Terra Ranka coalition, which won the June 4 legislative elections with an overwhelming majority, does not recognize the new executive and demands the reinstatement of Geraldo Martins' government. The coalition insists on the 'effective reinstatement' of its government and the resumption of normal parliamentary and institutional functions, emphasizing the need for CEDEAO and international community oversight. The President, who dismissed Prime Minister Geraldo Martins after a week in office due to disagreements over government appointments, advises those who disagree with his decisions to appeal to the Supreme Court of Justice.

The reappointment of Geraldo Martins as Prime Minister is leading to various political interpretations. Some analysts believe that President Umaro Sissoco Embaló's decision aims to create a rift within the PAI – Terra Ranka Coalition and the PAIGC party.

Guinean President Umaro Sissoco Embaló has announced his intention to form a new government following his participation in the ECOWAS Summit in Abuja, Nigeria. This move is expected to exacerbate the ongoing political crisis in Guinea-Bissau. The ECOWAS communiqué highlighted the importance of a transparent and lawful investigation into recent events and called for the swift restoration of the country's national institutions. The situation in Guinea-Bissau was a key point of discussion at the summit.

Guinean President Umaro Sissoco Embaló announced plans to form a new government this week following his participation in the ECOWAS summit in Abuja, Nigeria. Analysts believe this move may further deepen the political crisis in Guinea-Bissau. ECOWAS highlighted the need for a transparent investigation into events and a swift resumption of all national institutions' operations.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces in Guinea-Bissau, led by Baguê Na N’Tan, has announced it will take full command of the National Guard to prevent disorder, following incidents like the December 1st shootings. Meanwhile, the PAI – Terra Ranka coalition, which won the last legislative elections, deems the presidential decree dissolving the National People's Assembly (ANP) legally ineffective. The Order of Lawyers of Guinea-Bissau has condemned the decree as a blatant constitutional violation and called on the Supreme Court of Justice and the Public Ministry to review it. The government, led by Geraldo Martins, is urged to fully assume its functions amidst the crisis.

The West African Network for Peacebuilding in Guinea-Bissau (WANEP-GB) considers the President's decision to dissolve Parliament as hasty. Denise dos Santos Indeque, the coordinator of the organization, believes that President Umaro Sissoco Embaló did not adequately consider the political context when citing a 'serious political crisis' affecting the functioning of institutions. Meanwhile, the Peace Forum, through coordinator José Carlos Lopes Correia, warns that the current political situation could jeopardize all progress made so far and suggests increased cooperation between state institutions to protect the will of the Guinean people.

Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embaló has dissolved the National Assembly following events on November 30 and December 1, including an assault on the Judicial Police cells by an armed group from the National Guard, which the government failed to prevent. This incident, along with a parliamentary debate on public fund misappropriation where the National Assembly defended executive members suspected of corruption, led to the President's decision, citing a subversion of constitutional order and a severe political crisis. The eleventh legislature, which began on July 27 following the June 4 elections, is now interrupted. New elections are mandated within 90 days by the Constitution, but the date will be set in due course.

Guinean President Umaro Sissoco Embaló has accused some politicians of being the moral authors and financiers behind the actions of the National Guard, which involved the extraction of Finance Minister Suleimane Seide and Secretary of State for the Treasury António Monteiro from custody. Both were accused in the '6 billion' CFA francs case. The operation by the National Guard's Rapid Intervention Brigade was overturned by the Presidential Battalion, which re-arrested Seide and Monteiro and detained National Guard commander Colonel Victor Tchongo. During a visit to military installations in Bissau, Embaló stated that the events were an attempted coup and that several vehicles were seized and members of the Rapid Intervention Brigade detained. He assured that the intelligence service had prior knowledge of the operation and that those involved would face severe consequences.

Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embalo accused National Guard Commander Victor Tchongo of orchestrating a coup attempt by forcibly removing the Finance Minister from police custody, suggesting he acted under orders. Opposition leader Domingos Simões Pereira demanded full disclosure regarding the shootings and payments to businessmen, emphasizing his stance against violence and constitutional disrespect. The events led to violent clashes between the Presidential Battalion and the National Guard on December 1st, following the preventive detention of the Minister of Economy and Finance, Suleimane Seide, and the Secretary of State for the Treasury, António Monteiro.

Colonel Victor Tchongo, Commander of the National Guard of Guinea-Bissau, has been detained by the Army after releasing Minister of Economy and Finance Suleimane Seide and Secretary of State for the Budget António Monteiro from the Judiciary Police's cells. Seide and Monteiro are implicated in a payment operation of about 10 million dollars to a group of 11 businessmen, an incident with strong political overtones according to analysts.

Guinea-Bissau's Minister of Economy and Finance, Suleimane Seide, and the Secretary of State for the Treasury, António Monteiro, were detained on Thursday, November 30, by the Public Ministry after a six-hour hearing regarding the payment of a $10 million debt to a group of businessmen through one of the country's commercial banks. The detentions were made to prevent interference with the ongoing investigation, and it is uncertain whether they will be presented to the Criminal Instruction Judge on Friday, although it would be correct to do so to comply with the pre-trial detention period.

Amílcar Cabral, a key figure in the independence movements of Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde, is at the center of a debate over his legacy as his writings are set to be submitted to UNESCO's Memory of the World program. Some accuse the PAIGC of appropriating Cabral's legacy, while others dismiss claims of revisionism. The Parliament of Cape Verde rejected a state-level centenary celebration, while Guinea-Bissau's National People's Assembly approved a motion for celebration with opposition abstentions. Analysts like Carlos Vamain argue that Cabral's legacy should not be monopolized by any party, and sociologist Nardi de Sousa emphasizes Cabral's global significance and the need for more study rather than institutional blockages.

The Public Prosecutor's Office of Guinea-Bissau carried out search and seizure operations at the Ministry of Finance and the main headquarters of the West African Bank (BAO), where the government is the main shareholder. The operation followed a complaint about alleged payments made by the Public Treasury to a group of national and foreign businessmen totaling six billion CFA francs. The Ministry of Finance and Economy official stated that there were no irregularities in the government's operation, which was a normal procedure and that all companies to be paid had been audited by the Court of Auditors. The government is expected to divest from BAO by the end of the year as per IMF requirements, and a Mauritanian bank is set to buy the government's shares in BAO, contingent on the government settling all debts to third parties. Finance and Economy Minister Suleimane Seidi is scheduled to address parliament on the matter on Monday, November 27.

Guinean business operators are not enthusiastic about the announced forecast for their country's economic growth in 2024. The International Monetary Fund estimates a growth of around 5% for the next year. Adnane Yahya (Ado), a prominent Luso-Guinean entrepreneur in the restaurant sector in Bissau, expresses his skepticism about these projections.

Farid Michel Tavares Fadul, a deputy from the Social Renewal Party (PRS) in Guinea-Bissau, was beaten near the Presidential compound on Saturday night while allegedly taking drone footage near Amílcar Cabral Avenue, ahead of the Armed Forces Day celebrations on November 16. The PRS condemned the attack in a statement released on Sunday and called on the government, led by Geraldo Martins, to take responsibility for ensuring citizen security and to initiate a process to determine the civil and disciplinary responsibilities of the perpetrators. The party, which is part of the government, demands disciplinary actions leading to the removal of the agents involved. Incidents of beating deputies, activists, journalists, and social critics have occurred in Guinea-Bissau in recent years, but the perpetrators have not been detained or brought to justice.

The government of Guinea-Bissau has instructed its ministers to ensure the security of the Republic's institutions and to bring to justice those responsible for the armed invasion of the Supreme Court of Justice (STJ). The invasion, which occurred on March 3, led to the resignation of STJ President José Pedro Sambú. The PAI-Terra Ranka coalition accused President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of orchestrating the event, which he denied. The opposition party MADEM-G15 defended Embaló, while the PRS party called for dialogue to resolve the situation. The identity of the armed men and who ordered the invasion remain officially unknown.

Armed men who occupied the Supreme Court of Justice in Guinea-Bissau left on Wednesday amid uncertainties about their allegiance. President Umaro Sissoco Embaló denied sending forces, countering claims by the ruling PAI – Terra Ranka coalition. The government has remained silent. The opposition party MADEM-G15 accused PAI – Terra Ranka's leader, Domingos Simões Pereira, of destabilization efforts. The third-largest party, PRS, called for judicial restraint and dialogue to resolve the situation.

The ruling coalition in Guinea-Bissau, led by PAIGC, accuses the Presidency of invading the Supreme Court of Justice (STJ) and demands the immediate and unconditional withdrawal of military personnel, to be replaced by the Ministry of Interior's forces. This follows the resignation of STJ president José Pedro Sambú, who cited untenable conditions for continuing his role. The coalition calls for an urgent meeting of the Defense and Security Council to address the situation and restore constitutional order. The crisis began with disciplinary proceedings against Sambú by the Higher Council of the Judiciary (CSMJ) and escalated with the suspension of the STJ's vice-president and four council judges.

The Supreme Court of Justice (STJ) of Guinea-Bissau was invaded by armed men dressed in black. Vice-president of the STJ, Lima André, took over the office of the president, José Pedro Sambu, who was suspended by a group of judges for allegedly obstructing justice. Sambu had been denounced by the Judicial Magistrates Union in a case involving a citizen and the telecommunications company MTN. Attempts to get reactions from the Ministry of the Interior and the involved parties were unsuccessful. The Higher Council of the Judicial Magistracy had previously suspended Sambu, and in response, he suspended four magistrates who participated in his suspension. The controversy at the STJ began with accusations against Sambu of obstructing justice at the Regional Court of Bissau.

In Guinea-Bissau, the Judicial Magistracy Council (CSMJ) suspended the president of the Supreme Court of Justice (STJ), José Pedro Sambú, for alleged obstruction of justice at the Bissau Regional Court. Legal experts, including Cestifanio Domingos Sanca and Luís Peti, argue that the CSMJ's decision lacks legal basis, citing issues with the quorum and the improper convening of the council by the vice-president instead of Sambú. Sambú, who was a former president of the National Elections Commission, was controversially elected to the STJ on December 10, 2021, in an election boycotted by some council judges. The Voice of America has sought but not yet received any reaction from the STJ president.

The Judicial Magistracy Higher Council of Guinea-Bissau has suspended José Pedro Sambú, the president of the Supreme Court of Justice, citing 'alleged obstruction of justice' in the labor court of the Bissau Regional Tribunal. Sambú is to be temporarily replaced by the vice-president of the court, as per the regulations.

Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embaló announced the new composition of the State Council through a presidential decree. The council, an advisory body to the Head of State, includes the President of Parliament Domingos Simões Pereira, Prime Minister Geraldo Martins, and President of the Supreme Court of Justice José Pedro Sambú by virtue of their positions. Representatives from parties with parliamentary seats include Maria Odete da Costa Semedo for PAI-Terra Ranka, Braima Camará for MADEM-G15, and Fernando Dias for PRS. The council also includes Botche Candé, leader of the Guinean Workers' Party, and former Prime Minister Nuno Gomes Nabian, president of APU-PDGB. President Embaló appointed five citizens, including former heads of state José Mário Vaz and Raimundo Pereira, and former Supreme Court President Maria do Céu Silva Monteiro.

In Guinea-Bissau, there is a disagreement among politicians and analysts regarding the President's potential to directly appoint members to the State Council without consulting political parties with parliamentary representation. Fransual Dias, a lawyer and former member of the State Council, believes that party representatives are appointed through 'cooptation', implying a joint decision. However, legal consultant and political analyst Luís Peti warns that if the President appoints members from within political parties to the State Council on his own, it would be a serious unconstitutional act, as this decision should be made by the political parties themselves.

In Guinea-Bissau, a conflict has arisen between President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and the government over the new bread prices that took effect on September 24. The government, led by Geraldo Martins, lowered the price of bread and flour after an agreement with the National Association of Bakers and the flour importer. Traditional bakers refused the new price, prompting the President to meet with them and advocate for the old prices while negotiating with the government. The government, through Commerce Minister Jamel Handem, is threatening strict measures against non-compliant bakers. Adulai Djaló, a leader among the bakers, questioned the legitimacy of those who made the agreement, while Mamadu Camara, who signed the agreement, emphasized the need for dialogue over strikes or boycotts.

President Umaro Sissoco Embaló's statement that the next presidential elections in Guinea-Bissau should take place in 2025 has sparked reactions and legal analysis. The President of the National People's Assembly, Domingos Simões Pereira, rejects both the election date and Embaló's claim of assured victory in the first round. Legal expert Fodé Mané argues that Embaló's term ends on February 27, 2025, and staying in power beyond that would be illegal, advocating for elections by November 24, 2024, in line with constitutional requirements.

As Guinea-Bissau celebrates 50 years of national independence, the role of women in the economy, social sectors, and politics is revisited. Despite Amílcar Cabral's vision for women's emancipation during the independence struggle, there has been a regression in women's recognition. Binto Nanque, a former freedom fighter, notes a decrease in respect for women since the 1980s. Maimuna Sila, a lawyer, activist, and president of the 'Ana Pereira' Foundation, points out that the issue of women's valuation in Guinea-Bissau lies with political leadership. Although women make up over 50% of the population and lead most households and the informal economy, their social and economic weight is not reflected in political representation or decision-making centers, with only 11 out of 102 deputies being women in the current Parliament.

As Guinea-Bissau marks its 50th anniversary of independence, the youth face persistent unemployment, even with qualifications. Many express frustration over the lack of job opportunities. Organizations like the Fórum da Juventude e População and the Rede Nacional das Associações Juvenis (RENAJ) exist to guide young people in their professional development. Baite Badjana of the Youth Forum has a positive outlook on the youth's talents and academic achievements across various fields. Abulai Djaura, president of RENAJ, voices disappointment over the lack of development but remains hopeful for progress and better opportunities for the youth.

Guinea-Bissau is implementing the African Union's plan on border delineation to correct any inaccuracies in its borders with Senegal and Guinea Conakry. The National Commission of Land and Maritime Borders was established by the government to address this issue. Historical conflicts, notably in the 1980s involving territorial disputes over a maritime area rich in oil, led to an agreement between Guinea-Bissau and Senegal to share fishing and halieutic resources. Balbina de Pina Gomes, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, emphasizes the need for accurate border lines with neighboring countries.

The World Bank recommended that the Government of Guinea-Bissau improve its public expenditure framework and increase revenue mobilization. Finance Minister Suleimane Seide announced the recommendations from the 'Public Expenditure Analysis' report, highlighting a global debt of around 900 billion CFA francs, nearly 30% of GDP, which compromises the deficit agreed with the IMF. The government will issue debt to cover treasury bond responsibilities. The report emphasized concerns in the electricity, pensions, and health sectors, according to economist Serifo Só. Despite nearing defined objectives, government expenses significantly exceed revenues, leading to substantial fiscal slippages.

The Guinea-Bissau government and cashew producers have acknowledged the 2023 cashew marketing campaign as a failure. Jaime Bolges, president of the National Association of Farmers of Guinea, stated there is no remedy for this year's campaign, which was one of the worst. The lack of adherence to the recommended reference price, absence of monitoring, and involvement of government officials in trading were highlighted as issues. The previous government had set a base price of 375 XOF (West African franc) per kilogram of cashew, but the actual buying price fell to a maximum of 200 XOF per kilogram. Lassana Fati, the Director-General of Trade, also recognized this year's campaign as a failure.

A lawyer representing several detainees from an alleged coup attempt in Guinea-Bissau on February 1, 2022, is demanding their immediate release, citing a judicial decision that has been exceeded. The Guinea-Bissau Human Rights League has been denied permission to visit the detainees. The lawyer, Marcelino N’Tupe, insists that the new government authorities must order the immediate release of all detainees. Another lawyer, representing former officials and civilians, expects the new government to prioritize their release. The first vice-president of the National People's Assembly, Fernando Dias, has requested UN intervention for the release of the military and civilian detainees.

The Guinea-Bissau Minister of Education and Higher Education, Braima Sanhá, announced an emergency plan to ensure the smooth opening of schools for the new academic year, aiming to avoid the disruptions experienced over the past three years. The Common Front of Education Sector Unions, representing teachers, highlighted the need to address issues such as unpaid allowances and the hiring of new teachers. The union spokesperson, Sene Djassi, expressed cautious optimism about the new government's plans. Sanhá emphasized the importance of collaboration with unions and other organizations for a successful and quality school year. The academic year is set to begin on October 3.

A group of pirates, identified as foreigners, hijacked a fishing vessel in Guinea-Bissau's exclusive economic zone for over 24 hours. The shipowner reported the incident, stating that the pirates took the vessel with 18 crew members to neighboring Guinea, where they demanded a ransom of over 25,000 dollars for their release.

The government of Guinea-Bissau has decided to lower the price of rice, a staple in the local diet, by 22%, reducing the cost of a 50 kg bag from 22,500 to 17,500 Fcfa. This decision is part of an effort to mitigate the socioeconomic crisis in the country since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The government, led by Geraldo Martins, will monitor the implementation of this decision through the General Inspection of Commerce. Additionally, the government has instructed the Ministry of Interior, Commerce, Economy, and Finance to remove all non-tariff barriers to facilitate the movement of cashew nuts from the interior to Bissau for export. These measures align with the electoral commitments of the Inclusive Alliance Platform (PAI-Terra Ranka) from the recent elections on June 4.

President Úmaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau has sworn in new advisors, including former Defense Minister Marciano Silva Barbeiro and former Prime Minister Nuno Gomes Nabiam, asserting that they do not constitute a shadow government. This move has been criticized by political analyst Rui Jorge Semedo, who believes it has political motives and could disrupt governmental stability and finances.

Fernando da Fonseca, a political international expert and researcher at the National Institute of Studies and Research, argues that the new government of Guinea-Bissau should not be detached from the parliamentary framework. However, social activist Sumaila Djaló believes the number of executive members is excessive given the country's financial problems.

The new government of Guinea-Bissau, consisting of 35 members including Prime Minister Geraldo Martins, is set to be inaugurated on Monday, 14. The government features Carlos Pinto Pereira as Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Communities, Adiato Djaló Nandigna as Minister of Interior from PAIGC, Nicolau dos Santos as Minister of Defense from PRS, and Suleimane Seide from PAIGC as the head of public finances. The social sectors include Braima Sanhá for Education and Domingos Malú for Public Health, with Dionísio Pereira from PAIGC as Minister of Fisheries and Maritime Economy, and Hotna Cufuk Na Doha from PRS as the new head of Natural Resources.

Nuno Gomes Nabiam, the outgoing Prime Minister of Guinea-Bissau, has been appointed as Special Advisor to President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, with the rights and privileges of a Prime Minister. This unprecedented move in Guinea-Bissau's recent democratic history also includes the appointments of Suze Carla Barbosa as Advisor for Foreign Policy, Marciano Silva Barbeiro as Advisor for Internal Affairs, and Viriato Soares Cassama as Advisor for Climate and Environmental Affairs, all with ministerial rights and privileges. Additionally, Soares Sambú, the outgoing Deputy Prime Minister, has been appointed to the Civil House of the Presidency. These appointments occur as the country anticipates a new government following the June 4 elections.

The National Assembly of Guinea-Bissau unanimously approved the reactivation of the Commission for Constitutional Revision, which had been suspended since May 2022. The proposed constitutional changes include the establishment of a Constitutional Court and an Ombudsman, and will prevent the President from presiding over the Council of Ministers at will. Lassana Seide, president of the Commission, stated that the new constitution would clearly define the powers and limits of each governmental body, potentially preventing conflicts observed under the current constitution.

Geraldo Martins, the new Prime Minister of Guinea-Bissau, emphasized the need for an emergency plan to address the population's priority needs during his inauguration ceremony. He highlighted issues such as cashew nut evacuation, food price reduction, education, health, and water as priorities. Martins advocated for an inclusive government, referencing agreements with the Social Renewal Party (PRS) and the Guinean Workers' Party (PTG) for parliamentary and governmental incidence. He called for healthy cohabitation with President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and stressed the importance of focusing on solving people's problems rather than engaging in unnecessary conflicts. President Embaló expressed his readiness to support Martins and emphasized the need for unity to address the country's challenges. The next step following Martins' inauguration is the formation of a new government.

Domingos Simões Pereira, leader of the Plataforma da Aliança Inclusiva, has promised to announce the name of the future Prime Minister of Guinea-Bissau in the coming days. This statement comes two days after President Umaro Sissoco Embaló said he had not appointed a new Prime Minister because he had not received any note from the National People's Assembly regarding the parliamentary majority.

In Guinea-Bissau, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and PAIGC leader Domingos Simões Pereira have conflicting interpretations of the constitution regarding the formation of a new government following the June 4 legislative elections. Embaló awaits a notification from the National People's Assembly on the parliamentary majority, while Pereira believes the process should have started following the definitive election results published by the CNE on June 15. Legal expert Fransual Dias Mas suggests the President should initiate the appointment of the Prime Minister based on the election results. Civic analyst Sumaila Djaló views the argument as a bad omen and accuses Embaló of delaying the government's inauguration to politically weaken the winning coalition and prepare for his potential re-election.

Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embaló instructed the new Attorney General, Bacari Biai, to summon any sovereign body member allegedly involved in corruption or blood crimes, emphasizing that such crimes do not prescribe. During Bacari Biai's swearing-in, President Embaló stated that the rule of law must function and the constitution must be fully respected. Biai, who is taking up the post for the third time, was previously dismissed in November 2022 following allegations of drug misappropriation, which he stated was dismissed due to lack of evidence.

Domingos Simões Pereira was elected as the new president of the National Assembly of Guinea-Bissau with 89 out of 92 votes from present deputies. The election is expected to bring stability to the country. Fernando Dias of the Party of Social Renewal (PRS) was chosen as the first vice-president, and Adja Satu Camará of MADEM-G15 remains as the second vice-president. A parliamentary agreement between PAI - Terra Ranka and PRS, signed the day before the election, secures a majority with 66 deputies supporting the upcoming government. Political analysts Tamilton Teixeira and Rui Jorge Semedo anticipate a more mature parliament and potential for governmental stability.

Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, despite expressing opposition to the format of meetings like the Russia-Africa Summit, is participating in the event starting in Saint Petersburg. Mozambique is also represented at the highest level. Embaló criticized unprecedented pressures from Western countries on African leaders to boycott the summit. International politics expert Fernando da Fonseca believes Guinea-Bissau's participation will not have significant implications due to its minor role in international affairs. However, he suggests potential benefits in strengthening cooperation with Russia, especially in military training, while noting the risk of criticism from the EU and the US, who oppose the war and may view Guinea-Bissau as a traitor.

The Plataforma da Aliança Inclusiva (PAI-Terra Ranka), winner of the legislative elections on June 4, and the Partido da Renovação Social (PRS), the third-largest party in Parliament, have reached a consensus to sign a Parliamentary Incidence Agreement. The ceremony took place on Wednesday evening, 26, at a hotel in Bissau. With this agreement, the upcoming government led by PAI-Terra Ranka is ensured a majority with 66 deputies in the National People's Assembly, with 54 from PAI-Terra Ranka and 12 from PRS. The 102 deputies of the new Guinean Parliament are set to take office tomorrow, the 27th.

The population of Bubaque, a tourist center in Guinea-Bissau, is set to protest on the 30th of this month against the rise in transportation prices. The march is organized by the 'Djius Aós' movement, also known as 'Ilhas Hoje'. The spokesperson, Vladimir Victorino Gomes, stated that the population demands an urgent reduction in the prices for the Bissau – Bubaque route. The protest also aims to prompt the state to mark the maritime space to prevent accidents. Attempts to contact the Ministry of Transport for comments were unsuccessful.

The population of the Bolama Bijagós Islands in Guinea-Bissau is increasingly feeling isolated due to the lack of passenger transport ships. With 88 coastal and estuarine islands, the absence of proper transportation is a constant complaint, compromising safety and increasing isolation. Residents are forced to travel by pirogues, which are prone to frequent capsizing. The Djius Aós Movement has made several attempts to address the issue with the state institutions, but to no avail. The only current service is a weekly connection by the private company Consulmar to Bubaque. The former Governor of the Bolama Bijagós region, Venâncio Cabral, expressed deep concern over the lack of transportation means and the local authority's lack of autonomy to acquire ships. Residents hope the next government will provide solutions.

A study published in Guinea-Bissau this week concludes that women remain particularly vulnerable in terms of access to means of production, goods, services, education, health, and training, and are also poorer than men.

Residents of the islands and southern continental part of Guinea-Bissau are expressing outrage over new maritime transport prices set by Consulmar, the company operating the sole ship connecting Bissau, Bubaque, and Enxudé. The inhabitants, particularly affected by the price hikes, are demanding action, with some suggesting government acquisition of boats to ensure lower prices. The most affordable passenger class has seen price increases from 6,000 to 6,500 Fcfa for Bubaque and from 2,000 to 2,200 Fcfa for Enxudé. José António Aires dos Reis of Consulmar confirmed and justified the price changes.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has extended the mandate of its peacekeeping troops in Guinea-Bissau for an additional year, effective from June 30, 2023, to consolidate peace and stability. ECOWAS expressed concern over the security implications of the imminent withdrawal of MINUSMA from Mali and the presence of foreign private armies in the region. A Presidential Working Group consisting of Benin, Guinea-Bissau, and Nigeria was established to reflect on the withdrawal of MINUSMA and related security issues. ECOWAS leaders criticized the limited cooperation from transitional authorities in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea Conakry and urged adherence to the agreed 24-month transition timelines. The summit in Bissau also focused on terrorism in West Africa, with ECOWAS reaffirming its commitment to eradicating terrorism and violent extremism.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria's president, was elected as the new president of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), emphasizing the importance of taking democracy seriously and not tolerating coups in West Africa. Outgoing president Umaro Sissoco Embaló highlighted the need for financial resources to operationalize the organization's Rapid Alert Force to combat terrorism and unconstitutional changes in government. Embaló also reflected on his tenure and the political situations in Guinea Conakry, Mali, and Burkina Faso, calling for a return to constitutional normalcy for stability and promotion of democratic rule of law in the region.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) summit in Bissau marks the end of Guinea-Bissau's presidency, led by Umaro Sissoco Embaló. The presidency is critiqued for its lack of results amid military coups in member countries, rising terrorism, and economic crises exacerbated by the Ukraine invasion. Despite Embaló's push for an ECOWAS intervention force to prevent coups, it was not realized. Diplomat Abdou Djedju criticizes Embaló's unsuccessful approach to crises in Mali, Guinea Conacri, and Burkina Faso, while researcher Fernando da Fonseca points out the presidency's failure to respect member states' sovereignty. However, security expert Paulin Maurice Toupane acknowledges Embaló's clear stance on term limits as a positive contribution.

Skin lightening is an increasingly common practice and a problem that has reached Guinea-Bissau. This report discusses the experience of Sona, a woman who began skin lightening due to social pressure but now regrets her decision.

Cashew nut producers in Guinea-Bissau are facing a challenging year with a lack of buyers and low market prices, which are significantly below the government-stipulated base price. The situation has led to hunger cries in some communities. Jaime Bolges, president of the National Association of Farmers of Guinea (ANAG), accuses government officials, who are also the major buyers of cashew nuts, of exploiting farmers and not being interested in promoting the sector. Bolges also denounces the diversion of the 'Fundo da Contribuição Predial Rústica' worth approximately 10 million USD, which was meant to invest in orchards and improve collective sales but is suspected to have been misused for political campaigns.

Former President of Guinea-Bissau, José Mário Vaz, has been appointed as a member of the Council of State by President Umaro Sissoco Embaló. The appointment was announced in a presidential decree referencing the Constitution. Vaz, an economist and businessman, is the honorary president of MADEM-G15, a party that supports Embaló and holds the second-largest number of seats in the National People's Assembly. Vaz's presidency was marked by conflicts with his own party, PAIGC, and he did not advance to the second round in the 2019 presidential elections.

Braima Camará, the national coordinator of the Movement for Democratic Alternation (Madem G-15), resigned from his position following the party's defeat in the legislative elections on June 4, where Madem G-15 won only 29 out of 102 seats. Camará, a founder of the second-largest political force in Guinea-Bissau and a key ally of the President, took full responsibility for the loss. He is known as a man of character and honor and has announced his resignation during a meeting of the National Political Commission. Camará, a successful businessman who has never worked in the state sector and was elected as a deputy, is expected to return to the business world.

Following the legislative elections on June 4 in Guinea-Bissau, the PAI – Terra Ranka coalition emerged victorious, acknowledged by the President and other parties. Political analysts now foresee potential instability during the cohabitation between President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and the winning coalition led by the PAIGC's former Prime Minister. Analyst Rui Jorge Semedo warns that political will and respect for laws are essential for stability, while researcher Fernando da Fonseca highlights the military's role in the political landscape. The formation of the government and the distribution of portfolios are the next steps, with skepticism about the possibility of cohabitation due to the President's demonstrated character. The PAI-Terra Ranka coalition won 54 out of 102 seats in the National People's Assembly, followed by other parties, with the final results expected soon and the subsequent government formation.

António Óscar Barbosa from MADEM G-15 criticized political leaders for making false and irresponsible statements about the legislative election results of June 4, which are legally challengeable. The PAI-Terra Ranka coalition, through PAIGC leader Domingos Simões Pereira, claimed a comfortable absolute majority victory, while acknowledging the National Election Commission (CNE) as the sole authority for official announcements. MADEM G-15 has its own consolidated data but respects the CNE's exclusive right to announce results. The party, represented by Barbosa and campaign director Marciano Silva Barbeiro, calls for calm and emphasizes its peaceful nature. The CNE is expected to announce the official results on June 7.

Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embaló stated he will not appoint Domingos Simões Pereira as Prime Minister, even if the PAIGC-led coalition wins the June 4 elections. Embaló insists Pereira must first clear up legal issues. Pereira responded by saying Embaló's stance is an affront to the people's choice. Political analyst Rui Jorge Semedo views the President's interference as serious, while independent researcher Samba Bari emphasizes that cohabitation in a democracy is mandatory if it reflects the people's choice. National reactions from MADEM-G15 and PRS were sought but not obtained.

Domingos Simões Pereira, leader of PAIGC, was denied access to his party's headquarters during Guinea-Bissau's electoral campaign, describing the situation as a 'breaking point' and not ruling out violence as a last resort to defend rights and freedoms. Botché Candé of the Partido dos Trabalhadores Guineenses reported aggressive encounters in the east of the country, with security forces allegedly coercing a party member to switch allegiance to MADEM-G15. Fernando Dias of the Partido da Renovação Social called for peaceful elections, while Braima Camará of MADEM-G15 declared a stance against instability.

Health and education unions in Guinea-Bissau began a five-day strike with little impact observed at major hospitals like the National Hospital 'Simão Mendes'. Patients reported normal services, while local union representative Nuno Francisco Augusto Pereira attributed the lack of impact to political reasons. Ioio João Correia, spokesperson for the Frente Social, which includes four health and education unions, claimed the strike was positively impacting awareness of their just demands, including health technicians' reinstatement, salary payments, workload revision, full application of the teaching career diploma, and formalization of health and education sector workers. The government has been silent on these demands, with no negotiation meetings held since the previous week.

Guinea-Bissau citizens are hopeful that the upcoming electoral campaign, starting tomorrow, will focus on the presentation of political projects rather than insults and personal attacks. Campaign activities are already animating the main avenues in Bissau, the capital, while less movement is observed in Gabú and Bafatá in the east, and Canchungo in the north, where campaign activities are scarce. In Buba, to the south, there is also a lack of significant electoral activities. Voz da América has spoken with voters about their participation in the campaign and their concerns, particularly regarding security.

Political analysts in Guinea-Bissau predict violent rhetoric and a lack of substantive debate on the country's core issues during the electoral campaign starting on Saturday for the June 4th elections. Twenty political parties and two electoral coalitions will campaign for 21 days to win seats in the 102-member Parliament. Fernando da Fonseca, an international politics expert, expects ethnic and religious discourse rather than governance projects to lift Guinea-Bissau from its current state. Sociologist Tamilton Teixeira also foresees a lack of serious debate on major social problems such as inflation, education, and chronic hunger. The legislative elections follow the dissolution of Parliament by President Umaro Sissoco Embaló in May 2022 due to a political crisis, with the elections initially scheduled for December 18th but postponed due to lack of resources.

Guinea-Bissau is set to receive over three million dollars from the International Monetary Fund following the completion of the first review of the Extended Credit Facility program approved on January 30, 2023. The Ministry of Finance announced this on their official Facebook page, referencing a letter from the IMF's administrator for Guinea-Bissau, Facinet SYLLA, to the Minister of Finance, Ilídio Vieira Té. The IMF's Executive Board concluded the review without a formal meeting, which is seen as a sign of the national authorities' engagement and implementation of the program.

Guinean students who were in Sudan during the armed conflict have safely arrived in Bissau and reunited with their families. The group, consisting of nine students, eight males and one female, were attending the International University of Africa in Khartoum. Malam Indjai, speaking on behalf of the group, recounted the harrowing days in the Sudanese capital and the efforts to leave the conflict zone, including contacting family and diplomatic connections while communication networks were still operational.

Despite Guinea-Bissau's rise in the 2023 Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), the president of the Journalists' Union, Indira Correia Baldé, depicts a grim reality for media professionals, citing attacks on journalists and restrictive government legislation. Baldé calls for government action to address media precarity, invest in the sector, train professionals, revise taxation, and protect journalists. The RSF report highlights a deteriorating security environment for journalists, political and economic pressures, and President Umaro Sissoco Embaló's threats to shut down radio stations and his derogatory remarks towards journalists.

In Guinea-Bissau, women from various political parties competing in the June 4 legislative elections have established the Movimento Nacional de Liderança Feminina. Maimuna Sila, president of the Fundação “Ana Pereira”, emphasizes the significance of uniting women across party lines to pursue a common agenda. The movement aims to foster debates, build alliances, and influence public powers to respect laws promoting women's emancipation. Gender equality expert Bubacar Turé, who works at the United Nations, criticizes political parties for not supporting women's ascension to decision-making positions, despite a parity law, especially in the context of the upcoming elections.

Rwandan President Paul Kagame visited Guinea-Bissau on January 17, where he and his host, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, signed an agreement to abolish entry visas for their citizens. This follows a previous agreement on education, tourism, and trade signed last year. Embaló highlighted the importance of exchanging experiences between Rwanda and Guinea-Bissau, while Kagame praised Embaló's efforts in stabilizing the West African sub-region and expressed his desire for a future partnership agreement. Kagame was also awarded the highest distinction of the Republic, the Amílcar Cabral Medal.

Following the Guinean authorities' ban on talibé children begging in the streets for Quranic schools, experts like Laudelino Medina of the Associação dos Amigos das Crianças and sociologist Ivanildo Paulo Bodjam call for coordinated actions between the state, Quranic teachers, and organizations involved in child protection. Medina emphasizes the need for a concerted effort to address this deeply rooted traditional issue, while Bodjam highlights the important social role of Quranic schools and suggests community funding for their sustainability. Data indicates a significant number of children from Guinea-Bissau beg in Dakar, and there are officially twenty-two Quranic schools in Bissau alone.

Cattle breeders in the Gabu region of Guinea-Bissau are experiencing constant attacks by armed gangs who steal their animals. Aladje Tidjane Candé, president of the local cattle breeders' association, states that breeders are afraid to report these crimes due to a lack of security and justice. He highlights that 26 cattle were recently stolen and taken to neighboring Senegal. The governor of the Gabu region, Elisa Pinto Tavares, acknowledges the difficulty in combating this issue, especially due to police involvement. Despite the challenges, efforts are being made to recover stolen cattle with community involvement.

The government of Guinea-Bissau, through the General Inspection of the Ministry of Social Communication, ordered the suspension of broadcasts by Rádio Sol Mansi, citing non-compliance with obligations and failure to pay provisional license fees for the year 2022. Rádio Jovem also received a similar notification. Neither station has commented on the decision.