Guinea-Bissau's military junta announces National Transitional Council to oversee governing bodies

Establishment of National Transitional Council in Guinea-Bissau

The military authorities of Guinea-Bissau have announced the formation of a National Transitional Council. This body is tasked with preparing the transition instruments and supervising the activities of transitional governing entities. Details regarding the selection of council members have not been disclosed.

The military intervention occurred following a closely contested presidential election, with both leading candidates claiming victory. In response, the army has committed to drafting a Transitional Charter aimed at restoring constitutional legality. This charter includes the dissolution of the current Judicial Council for the transition period.

Furthermore, the military justified the coup, citing the need to alter the constitutional order by force to prevent potential escalation into an ethnic civil war due to the volatile political climate.

The electoral commission of Guinea-Bissau reported an inability to finalize the election results. This follows an incident where armed individuals intruded into its office and stole tally sheets concurrent with the military's seizure of power.

Based on reporting by Africanews.