A joint statement from the African Union, Economic Community of West African States, and West African Elders Forum has condemned the military coup in Guinea-Bissau, which occurred on the eve of the expected announcement of election results. The election observer missions described the presidential and legislative elections as “orderly and peaceful,” with strong voter turnout and professional conduct by electoral officials, security forces, and party agents.
The missions expressed concern over the suspension of the election and the takeover of the country by the armed forces, calling it an attempt to erode the country’s progress toward stability and to strengthen democratic institutions. They noted that the coup has hindered the conclusion of a largely peaceful electoral process and raised concerns about the arrest of top officials, demanding their immediate release.
The elections, held on November 23, 2025, saw a strong civic engagement from the people of Guinea-Bissau, with polling staff, security personnel, and party agents demonstrating professionalism throughout the voting process. However, gunshots were heard near the electoral commission headquarters before a televised announcement of a military takeover, with a group of army officers declaring they were taking control “until further notice.”
The coup took place as the country awaited the announcement of election results, which pitted incumbent President Umaro Embalo against leading opposition candidate Fernando Dias. The observer missions had met with both candidates, who pledged to respect the final results, before the armed forces declared they were taking power. The missions called the action “regrettable” and “a blatant attempt to disrupt the democratic process,” urging the African Union and ECOWAS to take immediate steps to restore constitutional order in the West African state.
The international community is watching the situation closely, with the United Nations and other regional organizations likely to weigh in on the developments. The coup is a significant setback for Guinea-Bissau, which has been working to consolidate its democratic gains in recent years. The country has a history of political instability, with several coups and attempted coups in the past. The current situation highlights the need for continued international support and engagement to help Guinea-Bissau strengthen its democratic institutions and ensure a peaceful transfer of power.