Gambiaj.com – (Bissau) – Opposition forces in Guinea-Bissau have formally expressed their recognition and support for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in its ongoing efforts to mediate the country’s deepening political crisis. In a statement addressed to ECOWAS Commission President Dr. Omar Alie Touray, opposition leaders commended the organization’s role in promoting dialogue and stability amid mounting tensions.

Guinea-Bissau has faced persistent political instability, which opposition groups attribute to the actions of former President Umaro Sissoco Embaló. The situation escalated with what they describe as an “unconstitutional extension” of the presidential term and the “illegal dissolution” of the National People’s Assembly.

The recent ECOWAS High-Level Mission, led by Ambassador Bagudu Hirse, was hailed as a crucial step in resolving the crisis. Opposition leaders emphasized the mission’s impartiality, despite initial concerns regarding a meeting with the Second Vice-President of the National People’s Assembly. According to the statement, ECOWAS has remained committed to the principles of democratic governance, resisting attempts by the Embaló regime to discredit the mediation process.

“The regime’s threats to expel the mission only confirm its autocratic and authoritarian tendencies,” the opposition noted, adding that the mission’s work must be safeguarded from political interference.

A key aspect of ECOWAS’s intervention is a proposed roadmap for holding inclusive and peaceful elections within 90 days, in line with constitutional requirements. Opposition forces have pledged their commitment to this process, refusing to engage in any dialogue outside of ECOWAS mediation.

The opposition further called on ECOWAS, the African Union, and the broader international community to maintain vigilance and ensure that democratic principles are upheld. “This should be seen as the beginning of a broader process of restoring constitutional legality in Guinea-Bissau,” the statement concluded.

With growing national and international pressure, the coming months will prove crucial in determining whether Guinea-Bissau can return to a path of stability and democratic governance.