28 November 2025
Lusaka, Zambia

The Continental Leadership Research Institute (CLRI) strongly condemns the military coup in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, which abruptly interrupted the democratic process on 26 November 2025, only hours before the announcement of official presidential election results. This unconstitutional seizure of power represents a grave assault on democratic governance, the rule of law, and the will of the Bissau-Guinean people.

The forced suspension of the electoral process, the detention of government leaders and electoral officials, and the disruption of civic freedoms constitute a profound setback for democratic stability in Guinea-Bissau and the wider region. Such actions threaten to undermine the legitimacy of state institutions and reverse hard-earned democratic progress.

CLRI calls for the following immediate actions:

1. Immediate and unconditional release of all detained political and electoral officials.
2. Restoration of constitutional order and the resumption of the electoral process, ensuring that results reflect the sovereign will of the people.
3. Protection of civil liberties, including freedom of expression, media freedom, and the ability of civil society organisations to operate without intimidation.
4. A time-bound and transparent transition roadmap, developed in consultation with national stakeholders, to ensure a rapid and credible return to democratic civilian rule.
5. Non-interference by security forces in political processes, in line with the principles of professional, accountable governance.

The people of Guinea-Bissau demonstrated remarkable maturity and commitment to peace during the 23 November elections, which were conducted in an orderly and inclusive manner. The military’s intervention not only disrupts this progress but risks further destabilising a region already affected by democratic backsliding and unconstitutional changes of government.

CLRI reiterates its support for the efforts of the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the West African Elders Forum to mediate the crisis and ensure the rapid re-establishment of democratic governance. We urge all regional and international partners to apply consistent pressure to uphold constitutionalism and prevent further erosion of democratic norms on the continent.

As an institution dedicated to promoting accountable leadership, democratic consolidation, and civic empowerment in Africa, CLRI stands in solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau and all Africans committed to building societies grounded in justice, legitimacy, and respect for human rights.

Mundia Paul Hakoola
Executive Director
Continental Leadership Research Institute (CLRI)
Website: www.clriafrica.org
Email: info@clriafrica.org
Phone: +260 967 309 823