Former Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan has cautioned ECOWAS and other regional bodies against any action that could undermine their credibility in the wake of Guinea-Bissau’s disrupted election. His remarks, reported by The Cable, have intensified regional discussions on democratic accountability.
Speaking in Abuja after completing his observation mission, Jonathan stated that “ECOWAS risks shame if it hides results witnessed by observers in all regions today.” He explained that the voting process had been peaceful and well-organised, with observers from ECOWAS and the African Union present at all nine collation centres before the sudden military interruption.
Jonathan questioned the authenticity of what President Umaro Embaló described as a coup, noting that the president continued granting media interviews despite claiming to be in custody. He described the situation as a “ceremonial coup,” suggesting political motivation rather than a genuine military takeover.
He stressed that publishing the actual results is a responsibility owed not only to Guinea-Bissau but to the entire continent. Any attempt to delay or suppress the figures, he warned, would damage trust in regional monitoring institutions and diminish public confidence in future elections.
Jonathan also called for the immediate release of opposition candidate Fernando Dias, insisting that democratic systems fail when political actors manipulate processes for personal benefit.
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