Bissau bows to ECOWAS by expelling an electoral mission...

Guinea-Bissau recently displayed unexpected firmness in its dealings with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS). While a joint mission from these organizations was in the country to assess the roadmap for the upcoming presidential and legislative elections, the mission was ordered to leave the territory. This incident occurs within a tense political context, following the controversial decision by President Umaro Sissoco Embalo to extend his mandate until November 30, 2025, despite its official expiration in February.

The ECOWAS-UNOWAS joint mission was in Guinea-Bissau to evaluate the electoral preparations and ensure that the electoral process adhered to democratic standards. However, the Bissau-Guinean authorities chose to expel the mission, a move seen as a defiance of the international community.

Has the Subregional Organization Become Obsolete?

President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, whose mandate officially ended in February, decided to unilaterally extend his rule until November 2025. This decision, made without consulting national institutions or international partners, has been heavily criticized by the political opposition and international observers. It raises concerns about the respect for democratic principles and the rule of law in Guinea-Bissau.

This incident occurs within a regional context already marked by political tensions in several former ECOWAS countries, notably in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.

Will Guinea-Bissau Follow Suit and Join the AES?

With the expulsion of the ECOWAS-UNOWAS mission, it is clear that the subregional organization is facing significant challenges. For some African observers, this might be the moment for Guinea-Bissau to seize the opportunity and join the Economic Community of Sahel States (AES), now seen as the only subregional organization truly fighting for regional sovereignty.