Gambiaj.com – (BISSAU, Guinea-Bissau) – Two key opposition coalitions in Guinea-Bissau, the Patriotic Alliance Inclusive – Cabaz Garandi (API-CG) and the Platform Aliança Inclusiva-Terra Ranka (PAI-TR), have reaffirmed their refusal to engage in any dialogue promoted by President Umaro Sissoco Embalo outside the mediation framework of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

In a letter addressed to ECOWAS Commission President Omar Alieu Touray, the coalitions condemned what they described as the “unconstitutional prolongation” of Embalo’s presidential term and the dissolution of Parliament, stating that these actions had exacerbated the country’s political and institutional crisis.

They expressed strong support for ECOWAS’ initiative to facilitate a consensus roadmap for inclusive and peaceful elections in 2025 within a legally mandated 90-day period. The opposition groups emphasized that the regime’s resistance to this process indicates its intent to cling to power at any cost, violating democratic principles and citizens’ fundamental rights.

The letter, consulted by The Democrat, also accused the regime of attempting to discredit ECOWAS’ mediation and issuing threats against the High-Level Mission, describing these actions as evidence of the “autocratic and authoritarian character” of Embalo in the face of mounting national and international pressure.

“The ECOWAS High-Level Mission has shown great dedication in listening to all stakeholders and has drafted an agreement for the conduct of the next electoral cycle,” the letter stated, adding that this effort is a crucial step toward restoring constitutional legality in Guinea-Bissau.

The opposition urged ECOWAS, the African Union, the broader international community, and Guinean civil society to remain vigilant to ensure that the electoral commitment is honored without manipulation. They stressed that ECOWAS and the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) should consider their mediation efforts as the starting point of a broader democratic restoration process.

API-CG and PAI-TR further acknowledged ECOWAS’ historical role in mediating Guinea-Bissau’s recurrent political crises and commended the recent High-Level Mission led by Ambassador Bagudu Hirse. They praised the mission’s impartial approach and dedication to democratic stability, despite initial concerns regarding its meeting with the Second Vice-President of the National People’s Assembly.

Meanwhile, President Embalo is set to begin consultations with political parties in the National People’s Assembly on Friday, March 7, to determine the date for early presidential and legislative elections. Although Embalo had previously pledged to hold elections on November 30, Guinea-Bissau’s electoral laws stipulate that polls should generally take place between October 23 and November 25.