A joint mission from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) has urged all stakeholders in Guinea-Bissau to maintain peace and stability ahead of the country’s 2025 legislative and presidential elections.
The high-level delegation, led by Ambassador Bagudu Hirse, visited Guinea-Bissau from February 21 to 28 to support political actors in reaching a consensus on an electoral roadmap. The mission met with President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, government officials, political leaders, election management bodies, civil society groups, and international partners.
During discussions, the delegation praised the commitment of political parties to dialogue and consensus-building. The team also drafted a proposed agreement outlining steps for conducting inclusive and peaceful elections in 2025, which was presented to stakeholders for review.
However, tensions escalated when President Embaló threatened to expel the mission on March 1, leading to an abrupt end to the visit. Despite the premature departure, the delegation will submit a report to the ECOWAS Commission with recommendations on ensuring a smooth electoral process.
The international community continues to monitor the situation, emphasizing the need for political stability and cooperation to safeguard Guinea-Bissau’s democratic progress.
