Guinea-Bissau voters turned out in strong numbers on Sunday for tightly contested presidential and legislative elections, marking a crucial moment in a nation long troubled by coups and political instability. President Umaro Sissoco Embalo is seeking to become the first leader in more than 30 years to secure a second consecutive term, facing stiff competition from 11 challengers. Among them is Fernando Dias, a rising political figure backed by the historic African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde, which was barred from fielding its own candidates after missing paperwork deadlines.

Analysts predict a razor-thin race between Embalo and Dias, with a likely runoff if no candidate crosses the 50 percent threshold. Casting his vote in the eastern city of Gabu, Embalo, dressed in his signature red keffiyeh, expressed confidence in victory while urging citizens to vote in large numbers for the nation’s peace, stability and future development. His message resonated across polling stations as voters embraced the opportunity to influence the direction of a country eager to break from its turbulent past.

With voter turnout surpassing 65 percent, the national electoral commission began counting ballots immediately after polls closed at 1700 GMT. According to spokesperson Idrissa Diallo, provisional results are expected on Thursday. As the nation awaits the outcome of this high-stakes election, will Guinea-Bissau finally find the stability its people have long hoped for? Visit www.jocomms.com for more news