A high-level delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) has left Guinea-Bissau following a threat of expulsion by President Umaro Sissoco Embaló.
The mission, which arrived on February 21, aimed to facilitate political dialogue and help stakeholders reach a consensus on a roadmap for the country’s 2025 legislative and presidential elections. However, despite week-long engagements with government officials, political leaders, election management bodies, and civil society groups, the visit ended abruptly on March 1 after the president’s warning.
In a statement released on Sunday by Ambassador Bagudu Hirse, the head of the mission, ECOWAS and UNOWAS urged all stakeholders and citizens to maintain peace and stability in the country.
During its stay, the mission had drafted a proposed agreement outlining steps for conducting inclusive and peaceful elections. It had begun presenting the document to stakeholders for approval before the sudden turn of events.
Following their exit, the delegation plans to submit a report to the ECOWAS Commission, detailing its findings and recommendations on ensuring a smooth electoral process in Guinea-Bissau.
