— Says Return To Constitutional Order Paramount
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has welcomed the recent measures taken by the transitional authorities of the Republic of Guinea‑Bissau.
In a communique issued, the regional body said the measure aimed at fostering an inclusive political environment and advancing the country’s return to constitutional order.
These developments according to ECOWAS were conveyed in a letter from Major General Horta INTA‑A, President of the Transition, addressed to His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada BIO, President of the Republic of Sierra Leone and Chairperson of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, dated 29 January 2026.
In the communication, the Bissau‑Guinean authorities announced the formation of an inclusive transition government, with three ministerial positions each allocated to PAIGC and the political group led by Mr. Fernando Dias Da Costa.
It also highlighted the appointment of ten representatives from the two political groups to the National Transition Council, release of all political prisoners and improvement of the conditions of detention of Mr. Domingos Simões Pereira, President of PAIGC, who has been transferred from central prison to house arrest.
Additionally, the request called for the withdrawal of the request for the departure of the ECOWAS Stabilization Support Mission in Guinea‑Bissau (ESSMGB).
ECOWAS urges all stakeholders to work collaboratively in support of a peaceful and credible transition leading to democratic elections.
It further calls for the full and effective release of Mr. Domingos Simões Pereira and guarantees of fundamental rights and freedoms for all citizens.
The regional body reaffirms its continued support to the people of Guinea‑Bissau.
In a related development, the ECOWAS Chair at the High-Level Consultative Conference in Accra, emphasized that over half of all terrorism-related deaths worldwide now occur in West Africa.
Ensuring regional security must be a shared responsibility adding that once the regional body is ready to finance, operationalize and defend resolutely.
He urged the United Nations, African Union, and other partners to collaborate closely with ECOWAS to intensify efforts against terrorism in our region.
“Fragmentation is no longer an option. Delay is no longer acceptable. Our citizens demand protection, not explanations.” He noted.
