Political mission departs Guinea-Bissau after expulsion threat

The high-level political mission jointly deployed by the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) and the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel (Unowas) hastily departed Guinea-Bissau in the early hours of 1 March after President Umaro Sissoco Embaló threatened to expel the delegation. According to the Gambia Journal, the mission had been in the country since 21 February, aiming to facilitate political dialogue and draft a consensus roadmap for Guinea-Bissau. Sent on the directive of the Ecowas Authority of Heads of State and Government, the delegation engaged with various political stakeholders, including Embaló, political parties, election management bodies, and civil society representatives. Initial discussions indicated a general willingness among stakeholders to co-operate in shaping an inclusive and peaceful electoral process. However, tensions escalated as the mission attempted to finalise and present a draft agreement for the election roadmap. While the exact reasons behind Embaló’s threat remain unclear, his government has had a history of strained relations with regional and international actors over governance and election-related issues. The sudden hostility towards the mission raises concerns over Guinea-Bissau’s commitment to a transparent electoral process and the role of Ecowas in mediating its political landscape. The mission is set to report its findings to the President of the Ecowas Commission, Omar Alieu Touray, including recommendations on how to salvage the electoral roadmap.