The military regime in Guinea-Bissau announced on Tuesday evening the release of 6 political opponents who had been detained since the coup that ousted President Umaro Sissoco Embaló on November 26 of last year.

The coup leaders described the move as a “goodwill gesture,” at a time when regional and international pressure is mounting for the country to return to constitutional order.

The military leadership also stated in a communiqué that the release of the detainees represents a “commitment to returning to the constitutional order and respecting international rights.”

The step followed a visit by a high-level Senegalese delegation to Bissau, which met with the detainees and demanded their release.

Furthermore, a group threatened last week to impose “targeted sanctions” on any party obstructing the return to civilian rule.

Custom design map of Guinea-Bissau

A Country Burdened by a Legacy of Coups

Guinea-Bissau, which has experienced a series of coups since its independence, is living through a new transitional phase after the ousted President Embaló left the country.

The military leadership appointed General Horta Intam, a close associate of Embaló, to head a one-year transitional period, amid widespread skepticism about the future of the political process.

In contrast, opposition candidate Fernando Dias sought refuge at an embassy which granted him asylum, while Pereira and a number of opposition leaders remain in detention.

Guinea-Bissau

Guinea-Bissau is a small West African country known for its diverse ecosystems, including the Bijagós Archipelago, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Historically, it was part of the Gabu kingdom and later a major Portuguese colony and slave trade hub, gaining independence in 1973 after a protracted war. Its culture reflects a blend of African ethnic traditions and Portuguese influences, evident in music, cuisine, and the historic fortifications of its capital, Bissau.

Bissau

Bissau is the capital and largest city of Guinea-Bissau, located on the Atlantic coast at the mouth of the Geba River. Founded by the Portuguese in 1687 as a fortified trading post, it became a major center for the slave trade and later the administrative capital of Portuguese Guinea. After a long war of independence, it officially became the capital of the newly independent republic in 1974.

Senegalese delegation

The “Senegalese delegation” typically refers to the official representatives of Senegal in international forums, such as the United Nations or the African Union. Historically, Senegal has played a prominent diplomatic role since its independence in 1960, often advocating for African unity and global cooperation through its delegations. These groups work to advance the nation’s foreign policy and interests on the world stage.