By Tamba Jean-Matthew III in Monrovia
France’s pledge to “pursue efforts” in protecting Guinea Bissau against an alleged military coup are methodically underway, diplomatic sources told Thematterspress Wednesday.
At the moment, France is accused of backing the military coup in Guinea, but will not welcome a military coup in Guinea Bissau whose military-turn civilian leader is liked by youths, the source intimated.
Guinea Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo was visiting Paris when the news broke of the alleged coup plot (15 October).
“France will be at your side to pursue these (attempted coup) efforts,” Mr. Macron assured his guest.
Arguably, such a stern promise will rest assure Mr. Embalo given France’s superior military intelligence and action in West Africa.
Guinea Bissau’s army chief General Biague Na Ntam informed President Embalo that a group of senior army officials have been paying soldiers to unseat his democratically elected government.
The event also coincided with the 47th anniversary celebration of the establishment of the Guinea Bissau army.
Mr. Embalo has since returned home as the French intelligence machine is flung into action.
No news has infiltrated but observers believe the alleged coup plotters could be linked to the Casamance rebellion in southern Senegal which is home to both countries insurgents.
Guinea Bissau is a former Portuguese colony that has known four military leaderships since independence in 1974 while, Nino Vieira, its longest ruler was assassinated in a drug-related tussle.
