This was detailed in a speech released in a Friday statement on its website titled, “The UK strongly condemns the recent coup in Guinea-Bissau and the attempted coup in Benin: UK statement at the UN Security Council.”
The recent military coup in Guinea-Bissau followed the ousting of President Umaro Sissoco Embaló after disputed elections, while in Benin, a group of soldiers briefly announced a takeover that was quickly thwarted by loyalist forces and regional support from ECOWAS, highlighting rising political instability and challenges to democratic governance in West Africa.
Speaking at a United Nations Security Council meeting on West Africa and the Sahel, Jennifer MacNaughtan, UK Minister Counsellor, said, “First, we strongly condemn the recent coup in Guinea-Bissau and the attempted coup in Benin.
“These actions undermine democratic governance across the region. We urge a swift return to constitutional order in Guinea-Bissau, the publication of official election results, and the immediate release of political prisoners.
“We commend the mediation efforts of ECOWAS and the African Union, as well as their leadership.”
MacNaughtan, who delivered the speech on December 18, also stressed the importance of regional cooperation in tackling security challenges.
“Terrorist attacks, organised crime, and climate change continue to destabilise communities and weaken national governance.
“Regional coordination is critical, and we welcome the work towards a regional standby force and efforts to build on the ECOWAS Counter-Terrorism Strategy. We commend too the increased engagement between ECOWAS and the AES.
“We welcome the progress made by Cameroon and Nigeria in implementing the ICJ judgement on their land and maritime boundaries. This is a good example of regional cooperation improving security.”
On humanitarian concerns, MacNaughtan highlighted the situation in the central Sahel, noting that millions face urgent needs: “Third, we remain deeply concerned by the humanitarian situation in the central Sahel, where an estimated 12.1 million people will require urgent assistance in 2026.
“As reflected in the Secretary-General’s report, access challenges and bureaucratic impediments continue to undermine the timely and efficient delivery of life-saving assistance.
“We urge all efforts to ensure rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access to those in need.”
