Guinea-Bissau a serious concern for U.N.

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UNITED NATIONS, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- There's a lack of constitutional order in the West African country of Guinea-Bissau that's cause for serious concern, the U.N. Security Council said.

Military forces in April surrounded the home of Guinea-Bissau Prime Minister Carlos Gomes in a coup just weeks before a runoff election. None of Guinea-Bissau's elected leaders has finished a term in office since the country gained independence from Portugal in the 1970s.

The Security Council said it had deep concerns about October attacks on an air force base there that resulted in serious human rights violations. The Security Council, in a statement, said it had "serious concern over the lack of progress" in Guinea-Bissau. It said the recent opening of the country's National Assembly, however, could pave the way toward an inclusive political process.

A report from the International Crisis Group said global condemnation of the April incidents arose quickly but faded. It said consensus is needed among regional leaders on whether to support long-term transition or a quick presidential vote.

The Security Council called on African political blocs to work with other organizations to help support Guinea-Bissau's political processes.