ECOWAS SUSPENDS GUINEA-BISSAU AFTER MILITARY COUP

ECOWAS SUSPENDS GUINEA-BISSAU AFTER MILITARY COUP

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced the suspension of Guinea-Bissau from all its decision-making bodies following the military coup that removed President Umaro Sissoco Embaló from power.

The regional bloc, in a statement released after an extraordinary session, said the action was taken in line with its protocols on democracy and good governance. ECOWAS condemned the overthrow of the democratically elected government, describing it as a serious setback for stability in the West African region.

According to ECOWAS, Guinea-Bissau will remain suspended from participating in all major decision-making activities, including ministerial meetings, summits, and committee sessions, until constitutional order is restored.

Member states have been urged to maintain pressure on the coup leaders and support regional efforts aimed at ensuring a prompt return to civilian rule. ECOWAS also warned that further sanctions may be considered if there is no clear roadmap back to democracy.

The coup, which plunged the small coastal nation into uncertainty, has drawn widespread international criticism. Regional leaders say they are monitoring the situation closely and are prepared to take additional steps to safeguard democratic governance in West Africa.