A joint statement from the African Union, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the West African Elders Forum condemned the military coup in Guinea‑Bissau, which occurred on the eve of the expected announcement of election results. Election observer missions described the presidential and legislative elections held on 23 November 2025 as “orderly and peaceful,” noting strong voter turnout and professional conduct by electoral officials, security forces, and party agents.
The missions expressed deep concern over the suspension of the election and the armed forces’ takeover, calling it an attempt to erode the country’s progress toward stability and to weaken democratic institutions. They highlighted that the coup has disrupted a largely peaceful electoral process and raised alarm over the arrest of top officials, demanding their immediate release.
During the voting, polling staff, security personnel, and party agents demonstrated professionalism, reflecting strong civic engagement by the people of Guinea‑Bissau. However, gunshots were heard near the electoral commission headquarters before a televised announcement of a military takeover. A group of army officers declared they were assuming control “until further notice,” just as the nation awaited the results of a contest between incumbent President Umaro Embalo and leading opposition candidate Fernando Dias.
Observer missions had met with both candidates, who pledged to respect the final results, before the armed forces seized 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 expected to weigh in. The coup represents a significant setback for Guinea‑Bissau, which has been working to consolidate democratic gains after a history of political instability marked by several coups and attempted coups. The current crisis underscores the need for continued international support and engagement to help Guinea‑Bissau strengthen its democratic institutions and ensure a peaceful transfer of power.
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