Key Points
- Jonathan led an election observation mission in Guinea-Bissau. He says voting was peaceful across all nine regions.
- He calls the takeover a ceremonial coup, not a real seizure. He said the president spoke to media during the event.
- Jonathan urges ECOWAS and the AU to publish results fast. He warns against letting the takeover erase the election will.
Goodluck Jonathan (Goodluck Ebele Jonathan) led an election observation mission in Guinea-Bissau and spoke to reporters after the disruption. He says the events announced as a coup were staged and ceremonial.
Jonathan told reporters he saw no sign of a real military takeover. See the report Goodluck Jonathan is trapped in Guinea-Bissau for more detail.
Why Jonathan rejects the coup claim
Jonathan said President Umaro Sissoco Embaló called media during the event. That behaviour did not match how soldiers treat leaders in real coups.
He told reporters ballots were cast peacefully across all nine regions. Results were ready for announcement before the disruption began on Wednesday.
Jonathan urged ECOWAS and the AU to publish the official results promptly. He said clear results were needed to protect voters’ will and trust.
Regional response and next steps
Regional groups have condemned the takeover and demand a quick return to order. Read the follow up Jonathan lands in Abuja for his arrival update.
Observers from several African countries joined the mission and reported calm voting. They said polling ran smoothly until security forces announced the takeover.
ECOWAS and the AU are considering sanctions and diplomatic measures. Jonathan asked regional leaders to act quickly to protect the vote.
Jonathan said transparent results would help calm tensions across Guinea-Bissau. He asked for the official tallies to be released without delay.
He described the role of observers as vital for election trust. Observers must see results published to confirm the voters’ choice.
The president’s rival claimed victory and called for calm in Bissau. Political leaders urged restraint to avoid violence and wider unrest.
Journalists reported mixed messages from military spokespeople and officials yesterday. That confusion raised questions about who held real authority on the ground.
The WAEF mission includes former leaders and diplomats from the region. They meet candidates and watch polling during each election assignment.
Nigeria’s foreign ministry confirmed Jonathan was evacuated and is safe. A special flight carried him and several mission members home.
Analysts say staged moves can aim to block clear election mandates. They warn such tactics undermine voters and weaken public trust.
Jonathan promised to press regional bodies for fast release of results. He said clear outcomes would help avoid a prolonged crisis.
The military has not yet given a full public timetable for elections. International observers call for calm and respect for democratic rules.
Jonathan’s comments add to growing calls for clear answers and action. Regional leaders are expected to convene soon to discuss next steps.
