Guinea-Bissau Opposition Pauses Protests for Independence Day
Two major political coalitions in Guinea-Bissau have announced the postponement of nationwide street protests originally scheduled for this week. The groups cited a desire to avoid disruption during the upcoming Armed Forces Day and Independence Day celebrations.
Leaders of the PAI-Terra Ranka and the Inclusive Patriotic Alliance (API) revealed the decision Thursday during a joint press conference in Bissau. The protests, which were set to run through Saturday, were intended to challenge what opposition leaders describe as an “abuse of power” and a “lack of democracy” under the current administration.
Respecting the “Freedom Fighters”
Saturday marks the 60th anniversary of the creation of the nation’s Armed Forces, as well as the official celebration of the 51st anniversary of Guinea-Bissau’s independence. Foreign dignitaries are expected to attend the ceremonies.
“As political leaders, we have an obligation not only to demonstrate bravery but, above all, the obligation to lead the people to a safe harbor,” said Domingos Simões Pereira, leader of PAI-Terra Ranka and the elected president of the Bissau-Guinean parliament. “Let the celebration take place on November 16.”
Baciro Dja, a former Prime Minister and Defense Minister representing the API, echoed these sentiments, stating the coalitions “deliberated extensively” before deciding to wait out of respect for the country’s “freedom fighters.” However, Dja pointedly reminded the public that the Armed Forces remain “subordinate to politicians.”
Criticism of Government Spending
While the opposition is stepping back for the holiday, their rhetoric remains sharp. Pereira accused certain factions of trying to “instrumentalize” the military against political opponents and lambasted the government for the high cost of the festivities.
“It is not possible for a celebration to be held where millions are spent… when people are dying in our hospitals for lack of saline solution,” Pereira said, referring to the contrast between the lavish military parade and the country’s struggling healthcare system.
A Warning for Next Week
The pause in civil unrest appears to be temporary. Pereira warned the government that the coalitions would resume their political agendas—including the possibility of new protest calls—starting November 17, immediately following the holiday.
In preparation for their next steps, the coalitions have sent open letters to General Biague Na Ntan, the Chief of the General Staff, and Omar Touray, the president of the ECOWAS Commission. While Pereira welcomed international community involvement, his message to ECOWAS was one of self-reliance: “If they prefer not to come, we will also be here to take our responsibilities and our destiny into our own hands.”
Image: Pexels – Yogendra Singh
