Did Armed Forces Just Seize Control in Guinea-Bissau?
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Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, military officers have claimed power in Guinea-Bissau, ousting President Embalo just before election results were due. As tensions rise, the country faces uncertainty. What does this mean for the future of Guinea-Bissau? Read on to find out more about this unfolding crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Military forces have seized control in Guinea-Bissau.
- President Embalo has been ousted just before election results.
- A curfew has been implemented across the nation.
- The military claims the takeover was necessary due to alleged plots against the government.
- International calls for stability and peace are growing.
Bissau, Nov 27 (NationPress) A faction of military personnel has declared that they have taken control of the coup-prone nation of Guinea-Bissau, just one day prior to the electoral commission's announcement of preliminary results from a highly contested presidential election. In a statement aired on state television on Wednesday (local time), spokesperson Diniz N'Tchama proclaimed that the military officers have ousted President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, suspended the electoral process, closed the country's borders, and instituted a nationwide curfew. Shortly thereafter, Embalo confirmed his removal, stating to France 24, "I have been deposed."
The military announced the establishment of a governing body named The High Military Command for the Restoration of Order, which will oversee the West African country until further notice. Additionally, they reported the detention of Embalo's primary competitor, Fernando Dias, and former Prime Minister Domingos Simoes Pereira, whom Embalo had defeated in the 2019 elections. It remains uncertain whether this coup faction represents the complete array of Guinea-Bissau's fragmented military forces or if they have achieved control over the capital and surrounding areas.
Guinea-Bissau, a small coastal nation nestled between Senegal and Guinea, has long served as a transit hub for cocaine smuggled into Europe. The military justified its takeover by alleging an attempt at destabilization involving "certain national politicians" and "well-known national and foreign drug barons", alongside what they claimed were efforts to manipulate the election results.
Gunfire was reported near the headquarters of the electoral commission, the presidential palace, and the ministry of the interior shortly before the coup announcement.
The shooting persisted for nearly an hour before subsiding around 1400 GMT, according to local media reports.
Provisional results from Sunday’s vote were scheduled to be released on Thursday, with both Embalo and Dias having claimed victory. Embalo was aiming to become the first president in over three decades to secure a second consecutive term.
Portugal, the former colonial ruler of Guinea-Bissau, has called for authorities to restore institutional normalcy, resume the counting of votes, and allow the proclamation of results. They urged all parties to "refrain from any act of institutional or civic violence."
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of stability and democracy in Guinea-Bissau. The recent military coup raises serious concerns about governance and civilian rights. It is crucial for the international community to support a peaceful resolution and restore democratic processes in the nation. Our commitment remains with the people of Guinea-Bissau.
NationPress
27/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the military takeover in Guinea-Bissau?
The military cited an alleged destabilization plot involving politicians and drug barons, claiming they acted to protect the nation's integrity.
What are the consequences of the coup?
The coup has halted the electoral process, detained political rivals, and imposed a curfew, leading to increased instability in the region.
How has the international community responded?
Portugal has urged for a return to institutional normality and called for all parties to avoid violence.
