Guinea-Bissau authorities have arrested opposition lawmaker Flavio Batica Ferreira for allegedly participating in a mystic ceremony linked to coup attempts. His detention comes amid political turmoil and disputes over presidential terms. Human rights advocates suggest the arrest may be politically motivated, reflecting broader instability in the nation.
Guinea-Bissau authorities have apprehended opposition lawmaker Flavio Batica Ferreira during what has been described as a mystic ceremony involving sacrifices meant to enhance the prospects of a coup. Ferreira, who is a dual national of Guinea-Bissau and France, was detained near the border with Guinea-Conakry on Sunday. He was reportedly taken into custody alongside a self-proclaimed Muslim seer and two other individuals.
A source connected to Ferreira, a member of the opposition African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC), indicated that he is currently being held at the Ministry of the Interior in the capital, Bissau. A security source noted, “Rumors of a coup abound. Those who want to instigate them organized mystical ceremonies and made sacrifices to ensure their success,” while emphasizing that authorities are closely observing the situation.
Human rights activist Abubacar Ture has suggested that the arrest may be politically motivated, highlighting Ferreira’s previous statements regarding his safety concerns. Ture commented, “We were told that he is at the Ministry of the Interior following his arrest during a traditional ceremony. I believe the reason must be political.”
The arrest occurs amidst a political standoff between Ferreira’s PAIGC and President Umaro Sissoco Embalo. The opposition argues that the president’s term should conclude on February 27, 2025, five years after he assumed office, whereas the Supreme Court has ruled that his mandate extends until September 4, a decision the opposition refuses to accept. In December 2023, following a purported coup attempt, Embalo dissolved the opposition-controlled parliament and subsequently postponed new legislative elections indefinitely by decree.
Guinea-Bissau has a historical pattern of political instability, having experienced several coups since achieving independence from Portugal in 1973. The current situation raises concerns regarding the country’s future political landscape and the integrity of democratic processes.
The arrest of Flavio Batica Ferreira, an opposition lawmaker, under allegations of participating in a coup-related ritual highlights ongoing political tensions in Guinea-Bissau. The situation is exacerbated by disputes over presidential tenure and the recent dissolution of parliament. This incident underscores the fragile political climate in the nation, which has faced numerous coups and political crises since independence.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
