A delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has visited Guinea-Bissau for talks with military leaders following last week’s military coup. The mission, led by ECOWAS chairman and Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio, urged the military to restore constitutional order.
The coup occurred three days after a closely contested presidential election. Both incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embalo and opposition candidate Fernando Dias da Costa claimed victory before provisional results could be released. No official results have been announced since the vote.
“I have just been sworn in to lead the High Command,” General Horta N’Tam declared after taking the oath of office in a ceremony at the military’s headquarters, AFP journalists observed. Dozens of heavily armed soldiers were deployed at the scene. (Photo by Patrick MEINHARDT / AFP)
During the takeover, Embalo said he had been deposed and arrested. He has since fled to Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of Congo. The military appointed former army chief General Horta Inta-A to lead a one-year transitional government, which announced a 28-member cabinet.
Nigeria has authorised protection for opposition leader Dias da Costa, citing an “imminent threat to his life”. He is currently at the Nigerian embassy in Bissau, and Nigeria has requested an ECOWAS troop deployment for his security.
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Restrictions have been tightened across the country. The military has banned demonstrations and strikes, while the opposition party PAIGC, reported that its headquarters were invaded by armed militia, and it had been barred from presenting a candidate in the November 23 election.
ECOWAS has suspended Guinea-Bissau from its decision-making bodies until full constitutional order is restored. International condemnation has grown, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calling for the immediate release of detained officials and warning against ignoring the will of the people.
The ECOWAS delegation continues mediation talks with the military, aiming to prevent further political instability and restore democratic governance in Guinea-Bissau.
