The Economic Community of West African States, known as ECOWAS, has decided to suspend Guinea-Bissau from all its decision-making bodies due to the recent military takeover in the nation.
This suspension was revealed following an emergency virtual meeting of the ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council (MSC) that took place late Thursday.
The meeting was led by Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio, who also serves as the head of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government.
In their communiqué, the MSC stated that this decision aligns with the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance established in 2001, emphasizing that Guinea-Bissau will remain suspended until a full and effective constitutional order is reinstated.
The coup occurred on Wednesday, just three days after the country held its controversial presidential and legislative elections.
The rebellious officers interrupted the electoral process, closed the nation’s borders, and halted the announcement of official results.
ECOWAS has strongly condemned the coup, labeling the detention of several individuals, including the sitting 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 demands the immediate restoration of constitutional order,” the statement indicated.
Additionally, it dismissed any arrangements that would legitimize the disruption of the democratic process or undermine the will of the people of Guinea-Bissau.
The regional organization has called for the swift release of all detained political figures, including President Embaló, electoral officials, and others who have been arrested.
ECOWAS has also insisted that the electoral commission be permitted to announce the results of Sunday’s election without any interference.
In spite of regional pressure, the coup leaders have appointed General Horta N’Tam, the army’s chief of staff, as the transitional head of state for a period of one year.