The Gambia government has condemned the military coup d’état in neighbouring Guinea-Bissau, describing it as an “unconstitutional seizure of power” and a direct attack on the democratic will of the Bissau-Guinean people.

In a statement,  the government said it was deeply shocked and concerned by the attempt to overturn the results of Guinea-Bissau’s presidential and legislative elections held on 23 November 2025, which international observers had widely described as peaceful.

The government said the coup attempt represented “a blatant violation of shared democratic principles and an unfortunate setback to the hard-earned progress made by the government and people of Guinea-Bissau and the wider ECOWAS region.”

The Gambia urged the immediate restoration of constitutional order, calling on all actors in Guinea-Bissau to remain calm, respect the rule of law, and allow the elected leadership to assume office.

It also appealed for restraint from all sides and encouraged citizens to uphold peace during what it described as a “critical moment” for the country.

The statement further emphasized the need to protect the rights and safety of civilians, foreign nationals, and election observers currently in Guinea-Bissau, especially officials deployed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

“The Government and people of The Gambia stand in solidarity with Guinea-Bissau during these difficult times,” the statement added, offering prayers that efforts to restore peace and stability in the country would succeed.

Guinea-Bissau, a West African nation with a long history of political instability, has experienced multiple coups and attempted coups since gaining independence from Portugal.

ECOWAS has been monitoring the situation closely, as the region has faced a resurgence of coups in recent years, particularly in Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and Niger.

By Adama Makasuba