In a significant move toward easing political tensions, Guinea-Bissau’s military junta has released prominent opposition leader and former Prime Minister Domingos Simões Pereira from prison. The release, which occurred on Friday evening, coincides with a formal pledge from the ruling Military High Command to establish an “inclusive” transitional government as the nation navigates the aftermath of the November 2025 coup.
Pereira, the leader of the historic PAIGC party, had been detained since soldiers overthrew President Umaro Sissoco Embaló on November 26. While he has been allowed to return to his residence, the junta clarified that he remains under house arrest pending an investigation into alleged “economic crimes.” Despite these restrictions, his release was greeted with celebrations by supporters in the capital, Bissau, who see it as a vital step toward restoring constitutional order.
Interim President and junta leader, Major-General Horta Inta-A, detailed the plans for an inclusive administration in a letter addressed to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). According to the proposal, the transitional government will allocate three ministerial portfolios each to the PAIGC and the Party for Social Renewal (PRS), led by Fernando Dias. Dias, who had sought refuge in the Nigerian embassy following the coup, is also reportedly no longer facing immediate arrest and has had his political restrictions partially lifted.
The junta’s shift toward inclusivity appears aimed at appeasing regional mediators and the international community. ECOWAS, which suspended Guinea-Bissau following the military takeover, recently welcomed the measures but continues to call for the “full release” of all political detainees and a transparent path to elections. The military has already issued a decree scheduling new presidential and legislative polls for December 6, 2026.
As Guinea-Bissau attempts to stabilize, the inclusion of the PAIGC—the party that led the country to independence—is seen as essential for any credible transition. For the African diaspora and regional observers, the success of this power-sharing arrangement will be a litmus test for whether the “Coup Belt” in West Africa can successfully pivot back to civilian-led democracy.
