Abuja, Nigeria – Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has criticized the recent military takeover in Guinea-Bissau, describing it as a “ceremonial coup” and urging the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to announce the results of the election that was interrupted by the coup. Jonathan, who led the West African Elders Forum Election Observation Mission in Guinea-Bissau, made these remarks in a rare public commentary, signaling the gravity of the regional political crisis.
The coup in Guinea-Bissau occurred on November 24, 2025, a day after general elections were held to elect the president and members of the National People’s Assembly. According to Jonathan, the circumstances surrounding the coup were unusual, as President Umaro Sissoco Embaló himself announced the coup before the military did. Jonathan noted that during genuine coups, deposed presidents are typically not allowed to communicate freely. This observation has sparked debate about the nature of the coup and the motivations of the parties involved.
Jonathan is urging ECOWAS and the African Union to promptly release the results of the election, which were already collated at the regional levels. He emphasized that announcing the results would help ensure stability in the country. Reports indicate that ECOWAS has suspended Guinea-Bissau from all its decision-making bodies following the coup, and the African Union has condemned the coup, calling for the release of detained officials and the restoration of constitutional order. According to sources, including tribuneonlineng.com and punchng.com, both organizations are working to restore stability in Guinea-Bissau.
The situation in Guinea-Bissau highlights the ongoing challenges to democratic governance in West Africa. The region has experienced a number of coups and attempted coups in recent years, underscoring the need for continued international support for democratic processes. As ECOWAS and the African Union work to respond to the crisis in Guinea-Bissau, Jonathan’s comments are likely to inform the debate about the appropriate course of action.
The international community is watching closely as the situation in Guinea-Bissau continues to unfold. The prompt announcement of election results, as urged by Jonathan, could help to ease tensions and promote stability in the country. As the regional and international organizations continue their efforts to restore constitutional order, the outcome of their actions will be crucial in determining the future of Guinea-Bissau’s democracy.
Source: Panafricanvisions
