The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially suspended Guinea-Bissau from all regional engagements after a recent military takeover disrupted the nation’s democratic framework. This suspension will remain effective until constitutional governance is fully reinstated.

Emergency Response to Political Upheaval

During an urgent session of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council, member states voiced deep alarm over the unfolding political turmoil. The assembly unequivocally condemned the military coup and rejected any efforts to invalidate the outcomes of the presidential and parliamentary elections conducted on November 23, 2025.

Demands for Immediate Release and Protection of Civilians

ECOWAS has demanded the prompt liberation of all detained civilian leaders, including President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and key electoral officials. The bloc emphasized the military’s responsibility to ensure the safety of all citizens and to facilitate the timely announcement of election results without interference.

High-Level Mediation Mission Deployed

To address the crisis, ECOWAS has dispatched a high-profile Mediation Mission spearheaded by Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio. This delegation, which also includes representatives from Togo, Cabo Verde, and Senegal, is set to engage directly with the military leaders in Guinea-Bissau to negotiate a peaceful restoration of democratic order.

Warnings and Continued Support Measures

The regional bloc has urged the military to withdraw from political affairs and return to their barracks, cautioning that additional sanctions could be imposed if the situation remains unresolved. Meanwhile, ECOWAS has instructed its Stabilization Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau to maintain protection over governmental institutions during this volatile period.

Accountability and International Oversight

In its official statement, ECOWAS held the coup leaders accountable for the welfare of all detainees and civilians, insisting on unhindered access for international election observers to monitor the situation. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to closely track developments and to employ all available measures under its protocols to restore democratic governance in Guinea-Bissau.