The international community is expressing deep concern following the recent military coup in Guinea-Bissau, which comes hot on the heels of national elections. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has publicly condemned the coup, asserting that it egregiously undermines constitutional order and democratic principles. He urged all involved parties to respect the rule of law and called for the immediate release of detained officials and politicians. Emphasizing the importance of peaceful resolution, Guterres stated, “disputes must be resolved through peaceful and inclusive dialogue and legal avenues.” More on this statement can be found here.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk echoed this sentiment by voicing concerns over reported human rights violations amid the unrest, such as restrictions on media outlets and internet access and excessive use of force against peaceful demonstrators. There are disturbing accounts of arbitrary arrests and at least 18 individuals reportedly detained without communication.
The African Union, through its Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, reiterated its firm stance against unconstitutional changes, affirming the National Electoral Commission’s exclusive authority to announce election results. Similarly, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has suspended Guinea-Bissau’s membership in decision-making bodies pending the return of constitutional governance.
The political upheaval comes after a contentious presidential election between the incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and his main contender, Fernando Dias, both of whom claimed victory prior to the official announcement. The military seized control the day before the National Elections Commission was due to announce the results, citing the need to prevent electoral manipulation—though specifics were not disclosed.
Amidst these developments, Major-General Horta Nta Na Man was sworn in as transitional president, with former President Umaro reportedly fleeing to Senegal. This latest military intervention is part of a troubling trend of instability in Guinea-Bissau, reflecting a history of coups dating back to its independence from Portugal in 1974. The west African nation faces significant challenges, including its role as a major hub for cocaine trafficking, which is deeply intertwined with political instability.
In his inaugural speech, the transitional leader justified the military’s actions as necessary to protect democracy from drug traffickers accused of wielding substantial influence within the country’s political landscape.
This coup raises complex legal questions under international law, notably in light of Article 4(1) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The provision allows states to enact measures that might contravene the ICCPR if faced with a national emergency threatening the nation’s life, a clause that may be relevant given the situation.