The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has formally rejected a transition programme announced by Guinea-Bissau’s military authorities, insisting on an urgent restoration of constitutional governance and warning of sanctions against anyone undermining the process.
Firm stance from regional leaders
At the bloc’s annual summit held in Abuja, Nigeria, ECOWAS leaders reiterated a policy of zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of government. The decision followed deliberations on the situation in Guinea-Bissau, where soldiers seized power late last month.
“What ECOWAS leaders have resolved to do is to ensure that there is zero tolerance for unconstitutional change of government,” said Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission.
Background to the takeover
On November 26, army officers identifying themselves as the Military High Command removed President Umaro Sissoco Embalo from office. The following day, they announced Major-General Horta Inta-a as interim president, suspending constitutional order and triggering regional alarm.
The takeover marks the ninth coup in West and Central Africa in the past five years, reinforcing concerns about democratic backsliding in a region already challenged by insecurity, economic pressures, and political instability.
Key ECOWAS demands
ECOWAS outlined a series of immediate steps it expects from the military authorities, including:
The unconditional release of all political detainees, including opposition leaders.
The establishment of a short, inclusive transition involving civilian political actors.
A clear and credible timetable for a return to democratic rule through elections.
The bloc also reaffirmed that presidential elections held on November 23—just days before the coup—were assessed as free and transparent by ECOWAS observer missions, as well as by the African Union and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP).
Diplomatic pressure and sanctions threat
To reinforce its position, ECOWAS mandated its chair to lead a high-level delegation to Guinea-Bissau to engage directly with the military leadership and key stakeholders.
The regional body warned that failure to comply with its resolutions would result in targeted sanctions against individuals or groups obstructing the transition, including potential travel bans and asset freezes. ECOWAS also called on the African Union and international partners to align with its approach and support efforts to restore constitutional order.
Regional analysts say the bloc’s response reflects a broader push to deter further coups and reassert democratic norms across West Africa, where repeated military interventions have strained regional cooperation and investor confidence.
Source:Africa Publicity
