Senegal is adopting a “realistic and moderate” approach to the ongoing crisis in Guinea-Bissau, even as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) maintains a firmer demand for an immediate return to constitutional order.
Speaking on TFM radio on Tuesday, Senegalese Minister of African Integration and Foreign Affairs, Cheikh Niang, outlined Dakar’s strategy. While condemning the recent coup and calling for the restoration of the electoral process, Niang emphasized that Senegal is willing to work within the reality of the military’s proposed timeline.
While ECOWAS remains rigid, Senegal has opted for a conditional acceptance of the military’s demand for a one-year transition.
“Ultimately, we accepted, but we must provide guidelines,” Niang explained. He asserted that Senegal’s geographical proximity and deep historical ties with Bissau necessitate a pragmatic role, arguing that “distant countries” should not be the sole architects of a solution.
Niang drew a parallel to Nigeria’s recent intervention in Benin’s failed coup, noting that the shared border between southern Senegal and northern Guinea-Bissau creates a unique security and social interdependence that requires a flexible diplomatic touch.
The crisis was triggered when General Horta N’Tam, Chief of Staff of the Army, halted the electoral process just 24 hours before the National Electoral Commission (CNE) was set to announce results. Since then: General N’Tam has installed himself as head of a one-year transitional government and adopted a transitional charter. Domingos Simões Pereira, a key opposition leader, remains in detention. Fernando Dias da Costa, who claimed victory in the November 23 election, has sought refuge in the Nigerian embassy in Bissau.
In contrast to Dakar’s flexibility, ECOWAS has formally rejected the military’s timetable. Following the 68th Ordinary Session in Abuja on December 14, the regional bloc issued a communiqué demanding: Immediate release of all political prisoners. A short-term transition led by an inclusive civilian government. UN-backed protection for national leaders and institutions.
ECOWAS has warned that targeted sanctions will be applied to any individuals obstructing the return to constitutional order. To bridge the gap, the organization plans to dispatch a high-level mission and a delegation from the Committee of Chiefs of Staff to engage in direct dialogue with the military authorities in Bissau.
AC/fss/abj/APA