The joint ECOWAS-UNOWAS mission in Guinea-Bissau has been asked to leave the country following threats from President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, according to a press release signed by Ambassador Bagudu Hirse on March 1, 2025.
The mission departed Bissau at dawn on the same day.
The expulsion comes at a critical moment in the country’s political landscape. On February 23, President Embaló unilaterally scheduled the presidential election for November 30, 2025, stating his intent to remain in office until his successor is inaugurated.
This decision contradicts opposition demands for his departure by February 27, 2025, the anniversary of his inauguration, and a Supreme Court ruling setting the end of his mandate for September 4.
Despite the mission’s abrupt departure, progress had been made in drafting an agreement on the timeline for the 2025 legislative and presidential elections. Discussions had already begun with political actors to secure their consent.
The delegation has urged all stakeholders to remain calm and prioritize peace and stability amid rising tensions.
Source: WAVN