Abuja, Nigeria—The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has formally lifted all sanctions on the Republic of Guinea and approved its full reintegration into regional decision-making bodies, following the successful completion of the country’s transition back to constitutional governance.
By: Yawah Y. Jaivey
The decision was announced in a communiqué issued on January 28, 2026, at the level of Heads of State and Government after consultations led by the ECOWAS Chair, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone.
ECOWAS recalled its longstanding protocols on democracy and unconstitutional changes of government, as well as multiple decisions taken since the military takeover in September 2021.
The regional bloc noted that Guinea’s transition process was guided by a 24-month, 10-point “dynamic compromise” roadmap agreed upon in October 2022 and endorsed by ECOWAS in December of that year.
The Authority commended the Guinean Transitional Authorities for honoring their commitment to restore constitutional order by the end of 2025.
“This commitment was demonstrated through the successful organization of a Constitutional Referendum on September 21, 2025, followed by a Presidential election on December 28, 2025,” ECOWAS stated.
According to ECOWAS, the conduct of both the referendum and the presidential poll received positive assessments from observer missions deployed by ECOWAS, the African Union, and other independent organizations.
In its resolutions, ECOWAS congratulated the Government and people of Guinea for the peaceful conduct of the presidential election and the inauguration of a democratically elected president on January 17, 2026.
The Authority also congratulated President Mamady Doumbouya on his election and urged him to pursue policies that promote social cohesion, national unity, and inclusive prosperity.
At the same time, ECOWAS announced that with immediate effect, it has lifted all residual sanctions against Guinea and individuals involved in the transition process.
“The country has also been fully reinstated in all ECOWAS decision-making organs and regional integration activities,” ECOWAS noted.
The regional body also encouraged the Guinean Government to build on the restoration of constitutional order by intensifying inclusive national dialogue, particularly in preparation for upcoming legislative elections.
Also, ECOWAS urged continued efforts to consolidate democracy, good governance, the rule of law, and socio-economic development.
Additionally, ECOWAS commended its Commission for accompanying Guinea throughout the transition process and directed it to develop initiatives to support post-transition reconstruction and peace consolidation.
The regional bloc conveyed special recognition to former Beninese President Boni Yayi for his mediation efforts, as well as to the African Union, the United Nations, and other international partners for their support.
ECOWAS, however, reaffirmed its commitment to remain actively engaged in monitoring developments in Guinea, while calling on Member States and international partners to continue supporting the country’s stabilization, democratic consolidation, and sustainable development.
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