International election observer groups from the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the West African Elders Forum have voiced their worry following the Guinea-Bissau military’s suspension of elections and declaration of a national takeover.
In a joint announcement, the observers described the coup as a threat to the country’s advancement toward stability and the reinforcement of democratic structures.
The missions emphasized that the presidential and parliamentary elections had been “organized and calm,” marked by significant voter participation and competent performance by electoral workers, security personnel, and party representatives.
They stated that the coup has impeded the completion of an otherwise mainly peaceful election.
The observers also expressed apprehension about the detention of high-ranking authorities, demanding their prompt release.
The statement read that the heads of the observer groups acknowledged the organized and peaceful conclusion of the voting process for the recent elections in Guinea-Bissau and praised the people for their engagement and the professionalism of those involved in the electoral process.
Reports indicate gunfire near the electoral commission headquarters prior to the televised declaration of a military takeover. A group of army officers announced they were seizing control “until further notice.”
The coup occurred just before the anticipated announcement of election outcomes. The observer missions highlighted that they had recently met with the leading presidential contenders, who had both committed to respecting the final results, when the military declared their takeover.
They condemned the action as “unfortunate” and “a clear attempt to undermine the democratic process,” urging the AU and ECOWAS to act swiftly to reinstate constitutional order in Guinea-Bissau.
