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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has suspended Guinea-Bissau from all its decision-making bodies following the military coup in the country.

This suspension was announced after an emergency virtual meeting of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council (MSC) on Thursday evening.

The session was chaired by Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio, who also heads the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government.

In its communiqué, the MSC stated that the decision was made in accordance with the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance (2001), emphasizing that Guinea-Bissau will remain suspended until full and effective constitutional order is restored.

The coup occurred on Wednesday, just three days after the country’s disputed presidential and legislative elections.

The rebellious officers interrupted the electoral process, closed the nation's borders, and halted the announcement of official results.

ECOWAS strongly condemned the coup, labeling the detention of several individuals, including the incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, who was widely expected to win the election, as unacceptable.

“The MSC condemns in the strongest terms the coup d’état that took place on 26 November 2025 and calls for the immediate restoration of constitutional order,” the statement declared.

It also dismissed any arrangement that would legitimize the disruption of the democratic process or undermine the will of the people of Guinea-Bissau.

The regional bloc demanded the immediate release of all detained political figures, including President Embaló, electoral officials, and others who have been arrested.

ECOWAS insisted that the electoral commission be permitted to announce the results of Sunday’s vote without any interference.

Despite regional pressure, the coup leaders have appointed the army's chief of staff, General Horta N’Tam, as the transitional head of state for a one-year term.

Frequently Asked Questions

What led to the suspension of Guinea-Bissau by ECOWAS?

Guinea-Bissau was suspended due to a military coup that followed contentious presidential and legislative elections.

What demands has ECOWAS made regarding the situation in Guinea-Bissau?

ECOWAS has demanded the immediate release of all detained political actors and insisted that the electoral commission be allowed to announce the election results without interference.

Who is the current transitional head of state in Guinea-Bissau?

The army's chief of staff, General Horta N’Tam, has been named the transitional head of state for a one-year period.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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