The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Sunday rejected a transition programme announced by Guinea-Bissau’s military rulers and demanded an immediate return to constitutional order, warning of targeted sanctions against those obstructing the process.
Guinea-Bissau’s Military High Command toppled President Umaro Sissoco Embaló on November 26, installing Major-General Horta Inta-a as interim president the following day. The move marks the ninth coup in West and Central Africa in five years, intensifying concerns over democratic backsliding in a region already facing political instability and insecurity.
At ECOWAS’ annual summit in Abuja, Nigeria, regional leaders called for the immediate release of all political detainees, including opposition figures, and insisted on an inclusive short-term transition in Guinea-Bissau. “What ECOWAS leaders have resolved to do is to ensure that there is zero tolerance for unconstitutional change of government,” said Omar Touray, president of the ECOWAS Commission.
The bloc noted that the November 23 elections in Guinea-Bissau were deemed free and transparent by ECOWAS observers, the African Union, and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries. ECOWAS has also mandated its chair to lead a high-level delegation to Guinea-Bissau for talks with the junta.
If the military fails to comply with ECOWAS’ demands, the bloc warned it would impose targeted sanctions against individuals or groups blocking the transition, calling on the African Union and international partners to support its efforts.
The ECOWAS stance underscores the regional body’s commitment to uphold democratic governance and prevent further erosion of constitutional order in West Africa.
Melissa Enoch
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