Regional bodies condemn military coup in Guinea-Bissau

Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embalo (Photo by: Amanuel Sileshi, AFP/Getty Images) 

The African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have sharply condemned the military takeover in Guinea-Bissau, describing it as a “blatant threat” to democratic governance in a region already strained by recurrent coups. The condemnation followed Wednesday’s sudden power seizure by officers identifying themselves as the High Military Command for the Restoration of Order, who moved to halt the announcement of presidential election results.

According to earlier reporting from Reuters and DW Africa, the coup leaders justified their move by alleging “irregularities” in the electoral process, claims that have not been independently verified. Analysts warn that the takeover risks destabilizing a country that has struggled with political infighting and military interference for decades, even as regional bodies have worked to restore constitutional order following several crises in recent years.

ECOWAS, which has intervened militarily in previous Guinea-Bissau upheavals, said it is monitoring developments closely and called for the immediate restoration of civilian authority. The AU echoed this demand, urging restraint and warning that unconstitutional changes of government undermine development and regional stability. Diplomatic sources told BBC Africa that emergency consultations are underway, raising the prospect of sanctions if the junta refuses to step aside.