Guinea-Bissau Opposition Pauses Protests for Military Day
Two major opposition coalitions in Guinea-Bissau have announced the suspension of nationwide protests originally scheduled for this week. Representatives from the PAI-Terra Ranka and API coalitions stated they chose to cancel the demonstrations to avoid clashing with upcoming Armed Forces Day military festivities.
A Strategic Retreat for National Celebration
The decision was made public during a joint press conference on Thursday led by Domingos Simões Pereira, president of the Inclusive Alliance Platform (PAI-Terra Ranka), and Baciro Djá, representing the Patriotic Inclusive Alliance (API). The protests, which were set to begin Thursday and continue through Saturday, were intended to challenge what opposition leaders describe as an “abuse of power” and a “lack of democracy” under the current administration.
The suspension coincides with the 60th anniversary of the founding of the Guinea-Bissau Armed Forces and the official 51st anniversary of the nation’s independence. A high-profile ceremony is expected in the capital, Bissau, on Saturday, featuring several foreign heads of state and dignitaries.
“As political leaders, we have an obligation not only to demonstrate bravery but, above all, to lead the people to a safe harbor,” said Simões Pereira, who is also the elected president of the Guinea-Bissau parliament. “We will let the celebration happen on November 16.”
Tensions Remain High
Despite the temporary truce, opposition leaders were quick to clarify that their grievances remain unresolved. Baciro Djá, a former Prime Minister and Defense Minister, emphasized that while the coalitions respect the “freedom fighters of the fatherland,” the military must remain subordinate to civilian political authority.
Simões Pereira went further, accusing certain factions within the government of attempting to “instrumentalize” the military against political rivals. He also criticized the government for what he called “disproportionate” spending on the celebrations amid a public health crisis.
“It is not possible that while people are dying in our hospitals for lack of saline, a party is being held where millions of dollars are being spent,” Simões Pereira observed.
A Warning to the Government and International Community
In a move to document their stance, the coalitions issued open letters to General Biaguê Na Ntan, the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, and Omar Touray, the president of the ECOWAS Commission.
The message to the international community was particularly pointed. While noting that foreign observers are welcome, Simões Pereira stated that the people of Guinea-Bissau are prepared to “take responsibility for our own destiny” if international mediation fails to address the democratic deficit.
The pause in action appears to be short-lived. Leaders from both coalitions warned that their protest agenda will resume on November 17, immediately following the conclusion of the military festivities.
Image: Pexels – Sebastián Contreras
