UN
Amidst political crisis, Security Council reiterates full commitment to support consolidation of peace and stability in Guinea-Bissau
The members of the Security Council expressed their serious concern over the latest political developments in Guinea-Bissau(the documents reads) and encouraged national actors to abide by the Constitution and the rule of law, while striving to find a political solution to the crisis.
The Security Council members also recalled resolution 2267 (2016) and “stressed the importance of national reconciliation, inclusive dialogue and good governance. They also stressed the need for the Government of Guinea-Bissau to continue to take concrete steps towards peace, security and stability in the country, by effectively reforming the security sector and tackling corruption.”, reads the statement.
Notably, the members of the Security Council commended the security forces of Guinea-Bissau for their non-interference in the political situation and the restraint shown in this regard. The members of the Security Council reminded the security and defense services of the need to continue abiding by civilian control.
They further commended the peaceful way in which Guinea-Bissau's population is following the political situation in the country.
The 15-member body welcomed the decision taken by the 49th Ordinary Summit of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government held in Dakar on June 2016, to designate a presidential mission comprising the Heads of State of Guinea, Senegal and Sierra Leone to meet and conduct discussions with those involved in the political crisis in Guinea-Bissau. They encouraged these regional leaders to further engage in addressing the current political situation of the country. They also welcomed the decision to extend for one year the mandate of the ECOWAS Security Mission in Guinea-Bissau. In this respect, they commended the decision of the European Union to provide financial support to this Mission.
The members of the Security Council encouraged ECOWAS and the CPLP to take the necessary steps towards organizing a meeting of the international contact Group on Guinea-Bissau, in consultation with the UN, EU and all concerned stakeholders.
Finally, they reiterated their commitment to continue to monitor the current political crisis and expressed their readiness to take necessary measures to respond to further worsening of the situation in Guinea-Bissau.
