By Crystal Ugoeze
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has suspended Guinea-Bissau from all its activities following the military coup that disrupted the country’s political process.
The suspension was announced in a communiqué issued after an emergency meeting of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council, which condemned the coup of November 26 and demanded the immediate restoration of constitutional order.
ECOWAS also set up a high-level Mediation Mission led by the Chair of the Heads of State and Government, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, to engage with the coup leaders. The mission includes the presidents of Togo, Cabo Verde, and Senegal.
The communiqué expressed concern that the coup occurred shortly after the country held presidential and parliamentary elections on November 23, describing it as an illegal interruption of the democratic process.
The regional bloc called for the unconditional release of President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, electoral officials, and all detained political figures. It also urged the military to return to the barracks and ensure the safety of citizens, residents, and international observers.
ECOWAS warned that it reserves the right to impose sanctions in line with its protocols on democracy and good governance.