Guinea Bissau Opposition Calls for Dialogue with Military Junta

Guinea Bissau’s two main opposition parties have appealed for dialogue with the military junta that seized power in late November 2025, as the country struggles through one of its most volatile political crises in recent history.

The junta, known as the Haut commandement militaire pour la restauration de la sécurité nationale et de l’ordre public, ousted President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and suspended the electoral process. Since then, tensions have grown over the future of Guinea Bissau’s constitutional order.

Opposition leaders, including figures from the coalition led by Domingos Simões Pereira, say they want to open channels of negotiation with the junta. They argue that dialogue is the only way to restore stability and avoid further confrontation.

The appeal comes after the junta offered positions in a transitional government to opposition politicians. Key leaders rejected the offer, describing it as symbolic and insufficient to address the deeper political crisis. They insist that any solution must include a clear roadmap back to civilian rule and democratic elections.

Crowds in the capital have watched developments with unease, as uncertainty continues to grip the nation. Analysts warn that the suspension of elections and concentration of power in the hands of the military could undermine Guinea Bissau’s fragile institutions.

Regional actors have also stepped in. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has repeatedly urged restraint and called for a swift return to civilian government. ECOWAS leaders say the coup threatens regional stability and risks isolating Guinea Bissau from its neighbors.

Observers note that Guinea Bissau has faced repeated political upheavals over the past two decades, with coups and contested elections weakening public trust in governance. The latest crisis has raised fears of renewed violence and economic hardship.

Opposition leaders argue that dialogue with the junta is essential to prevent further instability. “We must find a way forward that restores constitutional order and ensures the voice of the people is respected,” one opposition figure said.

For now, the junta remains in control, and its next steps are unclear. While it has signaled willingness to include opposition figures in a transitional arrangement, critics say this does not go far enough. The opposition’s call for talks highlights the urgency of finding a compromise that can steer Guinea Bissau back toward democracy.

As the political standoff continues, the international community is watching closely. The outcome of negotiations between the opposition and the junta will determine whether Guinea Bissau can move beyond crisis or sink deeper into instability.