The delegation, led by Sierra Leone’s president, sought to restore civilian rule after last week’s military takeover.

The visit took place as political actors remained detained and the country awaited results from the November 23 presidential election.

ECOWAS Presses For Civilian Transition

Mediators said discussions were “fruitful” but inconclusive, reiterating that the bloc condemns the coup and demands reinstatement of the elected president.

Officials insisted the electoral process must be completed and constitutional order restored. The regional body has already suspended Guinea-Bissau from its decision-making organs pending a return to civilian rule.

Junta Defends Seizure Of Power

Coup leaders said they acted to “restore security and stability,” citing unrest following the disputed vote. Authorities have banned protests and strikes while installing Gen. Horta Inta-a as transitional leader, along with a new cabinet composed mainly of allies of the ousted president.

The junta maintained that it will continue engaging ECOWAS.

One-Year Transition Under Review

The transitional authorities said a one-year timeline for returning to civil rule remains provisional.

They stated that the final decision will depend on the outcome of the December 14 ECOWAS summit, which will determine whether the bloc accepts, adjusts, or rejects the proposed timeline.

UN Calls For Release Of Detainees

The United Nations demanded the unconditional release of all detained political figures and warned that the will of the electorate expressed in last month’s vote must be respected.

Observers note that the crisis marks yet another chapter in a country that has experienced multiple coups since independence in 1974.