Guinea-Bissau in Crisis: Embaló Clings to Power and Challenges ECOWAS

Guinea-Bissau is once again plunged into political turmoil as President Umaro Sissoco Embaló refuses to step down despite the official end of his mandate on February 27, 2025. Defying constitutional norms, he has unilaterally extended his rule, postponing elections and suppressing opposition voices.

In a bold move, Embaló has also openly defied the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) by ordering the departure of its diplomatic mission.

This latest act of authoritarianism tests the regional bloc’s ability to uphold democratic principles.

Will ECOWAS take a firm stand against what many see as a constitutional coup, or will it once again appear powerless against a leader determined to hold onto power?

Embaló’s mandate was set to expire, but he relied on a controversial Supreme Court ruling to extend his presidency until September 4, 2025—an interpretation rejected by the opposition.

As a supposed compromise, he scheduled elections for November 30, 2025. However, critics argue this is merely a strategy to prolong his grip on power and stifle public dissent.

ECOWAS attempted to mediate by sending a diplomatic mission to Guinea-Bissau, but Embaló’s defiant stance forced the delegation to leave the country.

This episode further exposes the bloc’s diminishing influence and its struggles to enforce democratic transitions in the region.

The crisis in Guinea-Bissau also underscores why Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger chose to exit ECOWAS in favor of forming the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

Frustrated by what they perceive as an ineffective and externally influenced ECOWAS, these nations prioritized sovereignty and security.

Embaló’s defiance further illustrates the bloc’s growing inability to safeguard democratic integrity and protect the interests of West African citizens.

Fanta KOUROUMA