Guinea-Bissau Opposition Pauses Protests for National Holidays
Two major political opposition coalitions in Guinea-Bissau have suspended a series of planned nationwide protests to avoid clashing with upcoming national celebrations. The demonstrations, which were set to begin this Friday and continue into Saturday, were organized to protest what opposition leaders describe as a mounting “abuse of power” and a decline in democratic standards under the current administration.
Respect for National Pride
The decision to postpone the protests was announced during a joint press conference held on Thursday by Domingos Simões Pereira, leader of the PAI-Terra Ranka coalition and president of the national parliament, and Baciro Dja, representing the Inclusive Patriotic Alliance (API). Both leaders emphasized that the suspension is a gesture of respect for the country’s history, rather than a retreat from their political stance.
Saturday marks the 60th anniversary of the creation of Guinea-Bissau’s Armed Forces, as well as official celebrations for the 51st anniversary of the nation’s independence. Several foreign dignitaries are expected to attend the ceremonies in Bissau.
“As political leaders, we have an obligation not only to show bravery but, above all, to lead the people to a safe harbor,” Simões Pereira told reporters. “Let the celebration take place on November 16.”
Warnings Against Military Instrumentalization
Despite the temporary truce, the opposition leaders used the press conference to voice serious concerns regarding the political climate. Simões Pereira, who also leads the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC), warned that certain factions are attempting to “instrumentalize the Armed Forces” against political opponents.
He clarified that the opposition does not view the military as an adversary but questioned the government’s spending priorities during a time of national hardship. “It is not possible that while people are dying in our hospitals for lack of saline solution, a party is being held where millions are spent,” Pereira remarked, specifically criticizing the use of foreign funds for “disproportionate parties.”
Looking Ahead
The pause in civil unrest appears to be short-lived. Former Prime Minister Baciro Dja noted that while the coalitions chose to “wait out of respect for the freedom fighters,” the military remains subordinate to civilian political authority. Simões Pereira confirmed that the coalitions intend to resume their political agenda—including the potential for new street demonstrations—starting Sunday, November 17.
In a final move to signal their resolve, the coalitions signed open letters to General Biague Na Ntan, the Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, and Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission. Regarding the letter to the West African regional bloc, Simões Pereira issued a firm message: “If the international community comes, they will be welcome… but if they prefer not to come, we will also be here to take our destiny into our own hands.”
Image: Pexels – Yogendra Singh
