Political instability in Guinea-Bissau

Following the elections held in Guinea-Bissau last Sunday, the 23rd, it was expected that the provisional results would be released the following Thursday. Of the 966,152 registered voters, it is estimated that the turnout was 65%.

Contrary to what was planned, we were surprised today by news reports of conflicts and the military taking power, specifically by the High Military Command for the Restoration of National Security and Public Order. There is talk of a coup d'état.

President Embaló, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Biague Na Ntan, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Mamadou Touré, and the Minister of the Interior, Botché Candé, as well as other political leaders, were arrested.

It is worrying that the democratic electoral process has been interrupted, that the media has been silenced, and that borders and airspace have been closed.

All these events are signs of the fragility of democratic structures. Usually, the most affected are the vulnerable populations: Guinea-Bissau is considered one of the poorest countries in the world, despite various efforts to lift the country out of this situation.

Listen to the voice of the people and respond with justice.

Seeking to hear the “cry of the poor,” the Missionaries of the Precious Blood have invested in training, education, health, and community infrastructure. Let us pray that current leaders understand their fundamental role in building peace and progress in Guinea-Bissau.