Hon. Manuel Nascimento Lopes, a member of Guinea-Bissau’s delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament, has apologised to the country’s military, clarifying that his recent remarks in the regional parliament were never intended to offend or undermine the armed forces.
In an exclusive telephone interview with EcowasNewsOnline.com, Lopes addressed his earlier comments about national development, made in the wake of the military coup, as the country prepares to return to democratic rule. While expressing gratitude to his fellow citizens, he stressed that his statements were a natural reaction for an MP during a political crisis—not a personal attack.
“If any member of the military feels offended by my comments in the Community Parliament, I offer my unqualified apologies,” Lopes stated.
Highlighting his deep personal ties to the military, Lopes recounted that he is the son of a former general and freedom fighter. “I have respect for all military officials in my country and worldwide,” he said, emphasising that the respect is entirely mutual.
“They know my value, and I know theirs. I stand by their side, and I have always done whatever I can to support them. This is not a hidden fact in Guinea-Bissau,” he added.
Reaffirming his patriotism, Lopes asserted that he could never speak ill of the armed forces. “The rules and regulations of the armed forces are for us to comply with in defending our beloved country and our people. So why would I go out there and say something bad about our military? No,” he remarked.
He further appealed for understanding, saying: “If anyone in Guinea-Bissau feels offended, I apologise if they did not understand my comments. I love our military. There is no reason for me to turn against them or talk ill of them. The colleagues of my father fought for this country, and I fully support our armed forces. I belong to them, and I will not go against them. God Bless Guinea-Bissau.”
Kwaku Sakyi-Danso/EcowasNewsOnline.com
