Protest in Lisbon: Guineans Demand Democracy and Accountability from Guinea-Bissau's President

Protest Against Guinea-Bissau's Government in Lisbon

This Saturday, a protest organized by the Guinean Diaspora Platform in Europe took place in Lisbon, gathering dozens of Guineans who criticized the President of Guinea-Bissau, Sissoco Embaló. The demonstrators called for Portugal's intervention to ensure that democratic rules are upheld in their home country.

Mariano Quade, one of the protest organizers, emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts from Portuguese authorities to hold the regime accountable, stressing the importance of respecting the sovereignty of Guinea-Bissau while expressing concern for the well-being of its citizens. Quade stated, "It is crucial to show some concern for the welfare of the population."

He highlighted the protest's purpose: to stand for democratic values and against the systematic violations carried out by the Sissoco Embaló regime. Quade lamented the persecution of journalists and activists, along with reports of cruel events, including kidnappings, beatings, and the systematic prevention of specific political leaders, like Domingos Simões Pereira, from traveling. This behavior illustrates a severe attack on fundamental rights and freedoms.

Despite the urgency of the protest, which aimed to respond to yet another violation of the National Assembly and the Constitution, the turnout was limited, attributed to the short notice of the event and minimal promotion on social media. The march occurred at Marquês de Pombal, focusing on the restoration of constitutional order in Guinea-Bissau.