A faction within the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC) is questioning the legitimacy of its leader, Domingos Simões Pereira. This dissent is led by Aladje Seco Sanó amidst growing internal tensions as the party faces a potential split.
Background and Current Situation
Domingos Simões Pereira has been under house arrest since the military coup on November 26, 2025. His confinement follows a turbulent period for the PAIGC, which has historically been the primary opposition party in Guinea-Bissau. Sanó and his supporters now believe that Pereira is no longer fit to lead the party.
Internal Divisions in PAIGC
Aladje Seco Sanó has made headlines recently by calling for a reformation within the PAIGC. In a statement during a press conference on January 30, he declared the party’s leadership to be “decapitated.” He urged the need for a transitional leadership to guide the PAIGC until its upcoming congress set for November 2026.
Supporters of Sanó have openly expressed their desire to see him at the helm of the party. A message circulating on social media highlighted their endorsement of Sanó’s leadership, indicating urgency for changes within the PAIGC.
Military Influence and Allegations
The military, currently holding Pereira under surveillance, has restricted his ability to communicate publicly. The PAIGC’s political office has condemned the actions of Sanó and his faction, describing their efforts as orchestrated attacks driven by the ruling regime. Potential links to former President Umaro Sissoco Embaló are under scrutiny as the military seeks to maintain control over political narratives.
A prominent supporter of Pereira, who has fled to Lisbon, voiced concerns that Sanó’s actions may be influenced by the current authorities aiming to create divisions within the party. This perception of manipulation casts a shadow over the legitimacy of Sanó’s faction’s motives.
Future Prospects
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the military junta has announced elections scheduled for December 6, 2026, intended to conclude the current transitional period. However, the future of the PAIGC and its leadership remains uncertain, with tensions between factions likely to escalate as various parties position themselves for power.
- Date of Coup: November 26, 2025
- Next PAIGC Congress: November 2026
- Election Date: December 6, 2026
The unfolding crisis reflects broader struggles for political legitimacy within Guinea-Bissau, as former allies now find themselves at odds. The situation demands close observation, given its implications for the stability of the nation and the PAIGC’s role moving forward.
