The Senegalese government has expressed concern over the recent developments in Guinea-Bissau's preparations for the general elections scheduled for December 6, 2026. According to a statement released on October 8, 2026, the government is following the situation closely and has taken note of the declarations made by the transitional authorities regarding the challenges facing the electoral process. The government emphasized its commitment to peace, stability, and a swift return to constitutional order in Guinea-Bissau.
The Prime Minister of Guinea-Bissau, Ilido Vieira Té, and the First Vice-President of the National Electoral Commission, Felisberta Moura Vez, announced on October 8, 2026, that the conditions were not in place to hold the presidential and legislative elections as planned on December 6, 2026. This has raised concerns about a possible postponement of the polls. The Senegalese government has called for a consensual, inclusive, and transparent approach to any changes to the electoral calendar, with clear guarantees for the completion of the transition process.
The Senegalese Ministry of African Integration, Foreign Affairs, and Senegalese Abroad stated that they take note of the transitional authorities' declarations about the legal, technical, and institutional constraints that may compromise the electoral calendar. Senegal, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Guinea-Bissau's transition process and promoting a peaceful and stable resolution to the crisis.
The Senegalese government emphasized the need to lift restrictions on political and civil activities to ensure a smooth preparation of the elections and create a climate of trust essential for their credibility. They also called on the transitional authorities to engage in a constructive dialogue with all Guinean-Bissau political and social forces to agree on the conditions and modalities for an effective return to constitutional order.
Senegal's government urged all stakeholders, including military leaders, to exercise restraint, responsibility, and a high sense of national interest to preserve civil peace and avoid further escalation of political tensions. The government also reiterated its solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau and its determination to contribute to a consensual and stable solution to the crisis.
As the current chair of ECOWAS, Senegal will continue to work closely with other member states and concerned partners to facilitate a peaceful resolution to the crisis, while respecting Guinea-Bissau's sovereignty and democratic aspirations. The government expressed its commitment to supporting the Guinean-Bissau people in their quest for stability and democratic governance.
The crisis in Guinea-Bissau has raised concerns about the country's transition to democracy, and Senegal's mediation efforts aim to promote a peaceful and stable resolution. The situation remains uncertain, with the international community watching closely as developments unfold.
Key points
- Senegal calls for a consensual approach to changes in Guinea-Bissau's electoral calendar.
- The Guinean-Bissau government faces challenges in preparing for the general elections.
- Senegal reaffirms its solidarity with the people of Guinea-Bissau and commitment to a peaceful solution.
