AU, ECOWAS and WAEF observers stranded as soldiers seize power, suspend electoral process and shut borders…
Former President Goodluck Jonathan is among several African leaders currently stranded in Guinea-Bissau after a military coup toppled the government and halted the country’s electoral process.
Jonathan is part of a 36-member high-level observer mission jointly deployed by the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) to monitor Sunday’s presidential election.
The political situation deteriorated on Wednesday when military officers seized control of the government, suspended the election, and shut down all airports and land borders, effectively trapping visiting dignitaries and international observers in the country.
Coup Triggered by Disputed Election Claims
The takeover followed a tense standoff in which incumbent President Umaro Embaló, who is seeking re-election, and his main challenger, Fernando Dias, both declared themselves winners—even though the national electoral commission had yet to issue official results.
The military moved in shortly after the rival declarations, citing instability and disputing the credibility of the parallel victory claims.
Observer Missions Express Concern
In a joint statement, the AU–ECOWAS–WAEF delegation expressed “deep concern” over the military intervention, describing it as a serious setback to democracy in the region.
“It is regrettable that this announcement came at a time when the missions had just concluded meeting with the two leading presidential candidates, who assured us of their willingness to accept the will of the people,” the statement said.
The observers urged the AU and ECOWAS to take immediate and decisive steps to restore constitutional order and demanded the release of all officials detained during the coup.
Delegation Still Scheduled to Depart November 29
Despite the unfolding crisis, members of the observer mission including Jonathan, remain scheduled to leave the country on November 29, pending the reopening of borders and the restoration of safe travel conditions.
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