The violence and instability that have wracked Guinea-Bissau since independence also have taken their toll on the country’s economic development. The nation sits at the bottom of most economic and health indices, ranking third from last on last year’s Human Development Index.
The majority of people live without electricity or clean running water, and there are few job opportunities for young people. The average life expectancy in Guinea-Bissau is just 46 years.
About 600,000 of Guinea-Bissau’s 1.5 million people are registered to vote in today’s ballot.
In the tiny capital, Bissau, colorful campaign posters cover worn-out buildings and wrap around lampposts promising peace and security.
While Yala’s supporters wear his trademark red woolen hat, Sanha fans imitate their candidate by pointing to an imaginary wristwatch and chanting his campaign slogan: “The time is now!”
Henrique Rosa’s poster promises peace and development.
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