Former President Goodluck Jonathan has described the recent political unrest in Guinea-Bissau as unusual, asserting that the events do not match the traditional definition of a military coup. Speaking after leading the West African Elders Forum Election Observation Mission, Jonathan suggested the situation appeared more symbolic than real, calling it “maybe a ceremonial coup.”
Tensions escalated in Bissau after reports of gunfire near key government buildings. Soldiers claimed control of government operations, while President Umaro Sissoco Embaló publicly announced he had been arrested, prompting confusion. The military subsequently imposed a curfew, halted the electoral process, closed borders, and detained several high-ranking officials.
Jonathan expressed surprise at the unusual sequence, noting that Embaló was able to communicate with international media despite allegedly being under arrest. Drawing on his experience observing political transitions in West Africa, he contrasted the situation with previous coups in Mali, where ousted leaders were denied any public communication.
The former president urged ECOWAS and the African Union to ensure the election results are publicly announced. “They should tally all those results and announce them. They cannot force the military out. They must announce and let the world know who won that election. Let the world know who won that election,” Jonathan said, emphasizing the importance of transparency and adherence to democratic principles.
Jonathan also reflected on his role during the 2010 Côte d’Ivoire post-election crisis, highlighting how ECOWAS upheld the electoral verdict despite resistance from the incumbent, reinforcing the need for regional bodies to respect democratic outcomes.
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