By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
The Chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), President Julius Maada Bio, has reaffirmed the organization’s unwavering commitment to restoring constitutional order in Guinea-Bissau following a recent military coup.
In a constructive discussion with the country’s military leadership, President Bio emphasized ECOWAS’s dedication to upholding democratic principles.
The meeting comes after ECOWAS suspended Guinea-Bissau from its decision-making bodies and imposed sanctions on individuals involved in the coup. The regional bloc has also mandated a High-Level Mediation Mission, led by President Bio, to engage with coup leaders and facilitate a return to constitutional rule.
President Bio called for the immediate release of detained officials, including President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, and urged the military to respect the electoral process. The international community, including the United Nations, has condemned the coup and demanded a swift restoration of democracy.
ECOWAS remains committed to safeguarding stability in West Africa and ensuring that the will of the people is respected. The situation in Guinea-Bissau remains fluid, with tensions high and protests currently banned.
The communique from the Extraordinary Session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council has guided President Bio’s engagement with the military leadership, underscoring the regional bloc’s resolve to restore constitutional order in Guinea-Bissau.
