West African Leaders Decry Guinea-Bissau's Coup as a 'Sham'

West African Leaders Decry Guinea-Bissau's Coup as a 'Sham'

Political figures from Senegal and Nigeria express skepticism over the legitimacy of Guinea-Bissau's recent military takeover, labeling it a fabricated coup amidst electoral tensions.

Following the abrupt ousting of Guinea-Bissau's president by military forces, leaders from West Africa, including Senegal's Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, voiced their disbelief regarding the legitimacy of the coup. They referred to it as a 'sham' or 'ceremonial coup', sparked by the military's claim of thwarting a political destabilization plot. This incident has not only raised questions about the authenticity of the military takeover but has also led to widespread reactions within the nation, with citizens divided on the role of the military amid ongoing governance challenges.

Senegal's Pang state and Nigeria's Jonathan both demanded the release of presidential election results following the unexpected military intervention. Their statements contribute to claims from opposition groups asserting the coup was staged, although evidence has not been offered.

As President Umaro Sissoco Embaló was reportedly ousted the day before crucial election results were set to be published, the electoral process was subsequently suspended by military authorities. They attributed their action to preventing a plot aimed at destabilizing Guinea-Bissau, a country historically prone to coups and strife.

In addition to the military's authority stating they acted on behalf of national stability, the African Union imposed a suspension on Guinea-Bissau following the unconstitutional takeover, reflecting regional condemnation of the events.

Local reactions to the coup are mixed; while some residents advocate for military governance in hopes of improved living conditions, others express concern over the potential for chaos in the nation. As Guinea-Bissau grapples with political instability and drug trafficking concerns, the populace remains uncertain about the future.