Military in Guinea-Bissau Prohibits Protests Before ECOWAS Visit During Political Unrest

Guinea-Bissau’s military authorities have imposed a ban on protests and strikes as they tighten control ahead of a visit by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Following the military coup, labeled a “sham” by some West African leaders, the junta declared all demonstrations and activities seen as threats to stability illegal. This decision comes after protests in Bissau, where demonstrators, primarily youth, demanded the release of detained opposition leaders and the publication of disputed presidential election results.

The ECOWAS mediation team, comprising leaders from Togo, Cape Verde, and Senegal, arrived in Bissau to encourage the military government to restore constitutional order and address the contested election results. ECOWAS has warned of potential sanctions against those disrupting Guinea-Bissau’s electoral processes. Major-General Horta Inta-a, the interim president appointed by the military, justified the coup as necessary to combat “narcotraffickers” threatening democracy and promised a one-year transitional period.

This coup underscores a long-standing pattern of political instability in Guinea-Bissau, known for its role as a major cocaine transport hub and history of military interventions. International entities, including the United Nations and African Union, have condemned the coup, calling for a return to constitutional governance. The African Union has suspended Guinea-Bissau from its activities until order is restored.

In the wake of the coup, former President Umaro Sissoco Embaló fled to the Republic of the Congo, while a new government, primarily composed of Embaló’s allies, was appointed to manage the transition. As Guinea-Bissau navigates this crisis, international organizations are closely monitoring developments, advocating for a peaceful resolution amid continuing instability.