In a decisive move signaling its intolerance for unconstitutional power grabs in West Africa, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has suspended Guinea-Bissau from all regional decision-making activities.
The suspension follows the sudden military takeover in the country on 26 November, 2025.
The dramatic event according to ECOWAS threatens hard-won democratic progress in the region.
In a communiqué released after an emergency session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council, leaders expressed deep concern that the coup occurred barely days after citizens peacefully participated in presidential and parliamentary elections.
Beyond the suspension, ECOWAS activated one of its most powerful diplomatic tools: a High-Level Mediation Mission to directly engage the coup leaders.
The mission will be led by Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio, supported by the presidents of Togo, Cabo Verde, and Senegal, along with the ECOWAS Commission President. Their mandate is clear—secure the immediate restoration of constitutional rule.
ECOWAS did not mince words in its condemnation. The bloc insisted that the military must release all detained political figures, including President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and key electoral officials. It also demanded that Guinea-Bissau’s armed forces withdraw to the barracks and respect their constitutional duties.
As part of its security framework, the ECOWAS Stabilization Support Mission already deployed in Guinea-Bissau has been instructed to intensify efforts to protect national institutions during this period of uncertainty.
The communiqué also warned that individuals or groups undermining Guinea-Bissau’s democratic process could face targeted sanctions under existing ECOWAS protocols. The bloc reaffirmed that the coup leaders will be held personally accountable for the safety of citizens, residents, and detained officials.
ECOWAS emphasized that announcement of the 23 November election results must proceed without interference, maintaining that the will of the people is non-negotiable.
With tensions mounting and uncertainty hanging over Bissau, the regional body says it will remain on high alert as it seeks to prevent the crisis from escalating especially at a time when West Africa continues to grapple with multiple political disruptions.
