ECOWAS’s Endeavors Amidst Guinea-Bissau’s Political Crisis
President Umaro Mokhtar Sissoco Embaló’s decision to dissolve parliament without announcing new elections has ignited political controversy in Guinea-Bissau, with opposition parties accusing him of undermining democracy. His term was controversially extended by the Supreme Court, leading to tensions with the opposition. ECOWAS’s failed mediation attempts raise questions about its authority in the region, as Embaló’s actions could significantly affect both Guinea-Bissau and ECOWAS’s future interventions.
In December 2019, President Umaro Mokhtar Sissoco Embaló won the presidential elections, commencing a five-year mandate that he aimed to extend in 2025. However, in December 2023, he dissolved the parliament and has not announced new elections, prompting accusations from opposition parties that he is attempting to cement his power, thereby violating the constitution. In response, opposition leaders have threatened mass protests and civil disobedience unless a clear election date is provided.
The contention surrounding President Embaló’s term further complicates the situation. The opposition asserts his mandate concludes on February 27, 2025, in line with the constitution, while the Supreme Court controversially extended this date to September 4, 2025. This extension has been staunchly opposed by the opposition, contributing to the increasing political tensions.
In a surprising turn of events, President Embaló initially stated in September 2024 that he would not seek a second term. However, his position has since wavered, suggesting he may reconsider his decision after discussions with his family. This indecision has created an atmosphere of unpredictability in Guinea-Bissau’s political landscape.
On March 3, 2025, an ECOWAS delegation arrived in Guinea-Bissau to mediate the political crisis, but their efforts were abruptly halted when President Embaló expelled them. He advised the mediators to refrain from interfering in the country’s internal affairs, indicating a preference for engagement with France over regional cooperation through ECOWAS, an organization he once chaired.
Following this incident, President Embaló confirmed his intent to pursue a second term in the upcoming elections, a situation highlighting his disregard for ECOWAS intervention. This raises pressing questions regarding the organization’s effectiveness and its past responsiveness to crises, as seen in The Gambia’s 2017 political upheaval and Niger’s military instability in 2023.
President Embaló’s actions reflect a troubling disregard for leadership amidst this crisis, potentially leading to internal instability that threatens to isolate him, even in the event of military intervention. Observers now wonder whether he has secured French backing or if he intends to rely solely on his rapport with President Macron to navigate this tumultuous period.
To address the escalating crisis, it might be prudent for ECOWAS to consider engaging experts like Dr. Mohamed Ibn Chambas, an established mediator. The urgency of the situation in Guinea-Bissau calls for immediate, decisive action to maintain stability and uphold the integrity of ECOWAS in the West African region.
In summary, President Embaló’s controversial actions, including dissolving the parliament and extending his term, have created significant political turmoil in Guinea-Bissau. The lack of decisive intervention by ECOWAS raises concerns about its authority and effectiveness in managing crises within member states. As the political landscape evolves, the outcomes of Embaló’s decisions will not only impact Guinea-Bissau but also shape the credibility of regional organizations in safeguarding stability in West Africa.
Original Source: thepoint.gm
