Several bodies condemn military takeover in Guinea‑Bissau days after polls

Several bodies condemn military takeover in Guinea‑Bissau days after polls amid regional and international outcry

Multiple high-profile organisations and regional bodies have strongly condemned the recent military takeover in Guinea‑Bissau, just days after national elections. Observers from across Africa, civil society groups, and international institutions expressed alarm at the abrupt overthrow of democratic governance and called for the immediate restoration of constitutional order and release of detained officials.

Who condemned the coup — unity among observers and regional actors

The condemnation came from several quarters: the continental bloc African Union (AU), the regional group ECOWAS, election observer missions, and coalitions of West African leaders. These bodies jointly denounced the actions of the armed forces, which arrested the sitting president and suspended the electoral process.

Their joint statement described the takeover as a “blatant attempt to disrupt the democratic process,” noting that it occurred shortly after peaceful elections, when citizens had expected the announcement of results.

The condemnation also referenced widespread concern from the international community, urging all stakeholders to respect the rule of law and prevent further deterioration of political stability.

What triggered the condemnation: Coup days after elections

The military takeover unfolded shortly after the presidential and legislative elections. While the elections were initially praised for being orderly, soldiers subsequently declared they had assumed full control of the state — arresting the president, closing borders, and suspending the electoral process.

Observers expressed dismay that the coup was announced just after the conclusion of elections, as both presidential candidates had pledged to respect the official results. The takeover effectively nullified the popular mandate.

Demands by the condemning bodies: Restore order and respect democratic process

The regional and international observers made several explicit demands:

• Immediate and unconditional release of detained political and electoral officials.
• Restoration of constitutional order, including resumption of the electoral process and official declaration of results.
• Return of military forces to barracks and reinstatement of civilian governance, in line with democratic norms and protocols.

The bodies emphasized that any action undermining the will of the people would be unacceptable and warned of potential consequences for failing to comply.

Why this matters: Stakes for democracy in Guinea‑Bissau and West Africa

The condemnation underscores the gravity of the situation. The coup threatens to erode public trust in democratic institutions and risks isolating the country regionally. Analysts warn that failure to restore constitutional governance could lead to renewed unrest, economic instability, and further erosion of state institutions.

The response from regional and international bodies demonstrates that the world is watching and that the country must adhere to democratic legitimacy and respect for human rights.

Conclusion: Unified voices demand a return to democracy

The military takeover in Guinea‑Bissau has drawn united condemnation from major regional and continental institutions, election observers, and global partners. Their message is clear: reverse the coup, release detainees, respect the electoral outcome, and restore constitutional rule.

This moment marks a critical test for democracy, governance, and regional stability. The actions taken in the coming days will determine whether Guinea‑Bissau can return to democratic norms or slide further into political instability.