West African bloc opposes the military transfer proposal of Guinea-Bissau
The West African bloc ECOWAS on Sunday dismissed a transition programme put forth by the military leaders of Guinea-Bissau, insisting on a prompt restoration of constitutional order and cautioning that targeted sanctions would be imposed on those hindering this process.
On November 26, army officers in Guinea-Bissau, identifying as the Military High Command, overthrew President Umaro Sissoco Embalo and appointed Major-General Horta Inta-a as interim president the next day.
The recent coup in Guinea-Bissau marks the ninth occurrence in West and Central Africa within a five-year span, raising alarm over the erosion of democratic principles in a region that is already facing significant challenges related to insecurity and political turmoil.
During the annual summit of the Economic Community of West African States in Abuja, Nigeria, leaders urged for the prompt release of all political detainees, including opposition figures, and emphasized the need for an inclusive short transition in Guinea-Bissau.
Omar Touray, president of the ECOWAS Commission, stated, “What ECOWAS leaders have resolved to do is to ensure that there is zero tolerance for unconstitutional change of government.”
ECOWAS stated that the elections conducted on November 23 were considered free and transparent by its observers, as well as by the African Union and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries.
ECOWAS has tasked its chair with leading a high-level delegation to Guinea-Bissau for discussions with the junta.
The bloc stated that if the junta does not adhere to the ECOWAS demands, it will implement targeted sanctions against individuals or groups obstructing the transition, while calling on the African Union and international partners to back its initiatives.
