Guinea-Bissau has recently been the scene of a political crisis which has caused great concern. Soldiers raided police headquarters to arrest several members of the government, sparking speculation about a possible coup. However, according to President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, this is not a coup d’état, but rather an attempt to disrupt those in power.
The head of state of Guinea-Bissau has taken drastic measures to deal with the crisis, notably by dissolving the National Assembly. This decision raised debates about the legality and justification of this measure, thus fueling suspicions about the true motivations of President Embalo.
To better understand the complex situation in Guinea-Bissau, we interviewed Vincent Foucher, researcher at the CNRS and specialist in this country. According to him, it is important to nuance the terms used to describe recent events. Vincent Foucher emphasizes that what happened in Guinea-Bissau does not resemble a classic coup d’état, but rather a political maneuver aimed at destabilizing the government in place.
He also emphasizes that the situation in Guinea-Bissau reflects the persistent political tensions in the country for many years. Rivalries between different political actors have often led to institutional crises and recurring instability. In this context, the actions of the military can be seen as an attempt to gain influence in power games and defend their interests, rather than as a real overthrow of the government.
The dissolution of the National Assembly by President Embalo was criticized by the opposition and part of the international community. This cast doubt on his real desire to restore constitutional order and promote democracy in Guinea-Bissau.
While the situation remains volatile in Guinea-Bissau, it is essential that all political and military actors engage in a constructive dialogue respectful of democracy. A peaceful and lasting solution can only be found through a real desire for compromise and respect for democratic institutions.
In conclusion, the crisis in Guinea-Bissau cannot be reduced to a simple coup d’état. It reflects the persistent political tensions and power rivalries in the country. We must remain vigilant and encourage all stakeholders to find a peaceful solution that respects democratic principles to end this impasse.