The ECOWAS delegation led by Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio ended its two-day mission in Guinea-Bissau on Monday with no firm commitment from the military junta to hand power back to civilians.
Talks “Productive” But No Immediate Progress
Sierra Leone Foreign Minister Timothy Musa Kabba described the meetings as useful yet repeated the bloc’s clear position:
“ECOWAS condemns the coup and insists on an immediate return to constitutional order, including finishing the electoral process.”
Junta Sticks to One-Year Transition Plan
General Horta Inta-a, the new transitional leader, maintains the takeover was necessary for stability. A civilian government has already been formed, mostly with figures close to the ousted president.
Foreign Minister João Bernardo Vieira announced the junta’s 12-month roadmap will be submitted for approval at the ECOWAS summit on 14 December.
Key Points Going Forward
- Guinea-Bissau remains suspended from all ECOWAS activities
- Final decision on the transition timeline comes 14 December
- United Nations demands release of all detained officials and respect for the 23 November vote
Deposed President Umaro Sissoco Embaló is still in exile in Brazzaville.
Pressure on the military leadership will grow ahead of the decisive mid-December summit.
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