Guinea-Bissau Military Seizes Power
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Military Seizes Power in Guinea-Bissau, Suspends Elections
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Updated November 26, 2023, 18:55:40 UTC – Military officers in Guinea-Bissau have announced they are assuming “full state powers,” effectively staging a coup d’état. The move comes just three days after the contry held legislative and presidential elections, and includes the suspension of the electoral process and the closure of national borders.
What Happened?
On November 26, 2023, members of Guinea-BissauS armed forces declared they were taking control of the government, citing concerns about the political situation and the electoral process.The announcement, broadcast on national radio and television, stated the constitution was suspended and all state institutions dissolved. The military also announced the immediate closure of Guinea-Bissau’s air, land, and sea borders. reuters and Al Jazeera reported on the unfolding events.
The coup leaders have not yet specified a timeline for a return to civilian rule, but have indicated they are acting to prevent the country from descending into chaos. The exact number of military personnel involved and the extent of their control over key infrastructure remain unclear, though initial reports suggest they have secured control of state media and government buildings in the capital, Bissau.
Background: Guinea-Bissau’s Political Instability
Guinea-Bissau has a long history of political instability as gaining independence from Portugal in 1974.The country has experienced numerous coups and attempted coups, most recently in 2012 and 2021. Britannica provides a detailed historical overview of Guinea-Bissau.
The recent elections were intended to resolve a political deadlock following the 2019 elections, wich resulted in a fragmented parliament. president Umaro Sissoco Embaló, elected in 2019, has faced ongoing challenges to his authority, including accusations of abuse of power and corruption. The political climate has been further complex by tensions between Embaló and Prime Minister Aristides Gomes, leading to frequent government reshuffles.
Guinea-bissau is one of the poorest countries in the world,heavily reliant on cashew nut exports and vulnerable to climate change. Economic hardship and widespread poverty contribute to the country’s political fragility. the country also faces challenges related to drug trafficking, with its remote islands and porous borders making it a transit point for cocaine from South America to Europe. The Council on Foreign Relations details the ongoing challenges facing Guinea-Bissau.
Who is Affected?
The immediate impact of the coup is felt by the citizens of Guinea-Bissau, who are now living under military rule.The suspension of the electoral process casts doubt on the future of the country’s democratic institutions. The border closures disrupt trade and travel, impacting the economy and the movement of peopel.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has condemned the coup and is expected to take action to restore constitutional order. ECOWAS has a history of intervening in member states to prevent and resolve political crises. international partners, including the United Nations, the african union, and individual countries like the United States and Portugal, have also expressed concern and called for a peaceful resolution.
The coup also affects regional stability in west Africa, which is already grappling with a series of security challenges, including terrorism and political instability in neighboring countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.
Timeline of Recent Events
- November 23,2023: Legislative and presidential elections held in Guinea-bissau.
- November 26, 2023: Military officers announce they have seized power, suspending the electoral process and closing borders.
- November 26, 2023: ECOWAS condemns the coup.
FAQs
- What is ECOWAS?
- The Economic Community of West African