Ex-Nigerian Leader Denounces ‘Symbolic Coup’ in Guinea-Bissau

Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has condemned the military coup in Guinea-Bissau, labeling it a “ceremonial coup” after soldiers claimed control on state television amid reports of gunfire near the presidential palace just days post-election. Jonathan highlighted the unusual nature of the events, pointing out that President Umaro Sissoco Embaló announced the coup himself while addressing the media, questioning, “Who is fooling who?” He characterized the situation as troubling for democracy supporters.

The political landscape in Guinea-Bissau has become murkier as opposition leaders allege that Embaló orchestrated the coup to cling to power. Fernando Dias, the primary opposition candidate, asserted his electoral victory, stating that he has polling station reports to back his claim. He questioned the logic behind Embaló supposedly staging a coup if he was indeed the winner. Meanwhile, reports suggest that Embaló is currently in custody.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reacted by suspending Guinea-Bissau’s membership, denouncing the military’s actions as an “illegal abortion of the democratic process.” This decision was made during a virtual meeting of ECOWAS’ Mediation and Security Council, chaired by Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio. The African Union has also condemned the coup, indicating that further actions, such as suspending the country, are forthcoming.

Guinea-Bissau has a long history of political instability marked by numerous coups since its independence from Portugal over 50 years ago. Analysts express concern that this latest upheaval jeopardizes the delicate democratic progress in a nation struggling with persistent poverty and issues related to drug trafficking.