By: Isatou Sarr
In direct response to the directive from the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, deployed a high-level political mission to Guinea-Bissau from February 21 to 28, 2025.
The mission’s objective was unequivocal: to facilitate political actors and stakeholders in establishing a consensus-driven roadmap for inclusive and peaceful elections in 2025.
This mission was a decisive joint initiative between ECOWAS and the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS). It engaged in productive dialogue with the President of the Republic, H.E. Umaro Sissoco Embaló, and consulted a broad spectrum of national stakeholders, including government authorities, political actors, electoral management bodies, civil society representatives, and various regional and international partners.
The mission took note of the significant issues and concerns raised during these discussions and acknowledged the steadfast commitment of stakeholders to engage in political dialogue. This commitment is crucial for fostering broad consensus on the electoral roadmap for the forthcoming Legislative and Presidential elections in 2025.
A draft agreement outlining this roadmap has been meticulously prepared and is being presented to stakeholders for approval. The mission concluded its operations and departed Bissau early on the morning of March 1, following intimidation tactics from H.E. Umaro Sissoco Embaló, who threatened to expel the mission.
The mission will deliver a comprehensive report to the President of the ECOWAS Commission, outlining its proposals and strategies for establishing a consensual roadmap to conduct inclusive and peaceful elections in 2025. We reiterate our call to all stakeholders and citizens to maintain calm and uphold peace and stability in the country.
