The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has expressed, on November 27, profound concern over the escalating crisis in Guinea-Bissau, condemning in unequivocal terms the military-led coup and all actions that undermine the country’s constitutional framework.
He stressed that disregarding the will of citizens who voted peacefully in the 23 November general elections represents a grave breach of democratic norms. Through his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, the UN chief on Thursday called for the immediate and unconditional restoration of constitutional order and the release of all detained officials.
Guterres further appealed to all actors to demonstrate restraint, uphold democratic institutions, and respect the electorate’s mandate. He underscored the need for disputes to be resolved through peaceful dialogue and lawful mechanisms, reaffirming the UN’s robust backing for ECOWAS, the African Union and the West African Elders Forum in their efforts to protect democracy and stabilise the situation.
His remarks come as Guinea-Bissau’s armed forces announced they had seized state power on Wednesday, citing alleged attempts by political figures to destabilise the nation, and as senior military officer Horta Inta-A was sworn in on Thursday as transitional president for a one-year term.