Military forces in Guinea-Bissau have declared complete authority over the West African nation, suspending the electoral process and sealing the country's borders just days after presidential and legislative elections.
Military Seizes Control Amid Election Uncertainty
The dramatic announcement came on Wednesday, November 26, when military officers publicly declared they were taking "total control" of Guinea-Bissau. The military's statement was delivered at army headquarters in the capital city of Bissau, with AFP journalists witnessing the proceedings firsthand.
This military intervention occurred exactly three days after the country held crucial legislative and presidential elections, throwing the democratic process into uncertainty. Earlier that same day, residents reported hearing gunfire near the presidential palace as soldiers in military uniform blocked the main road leading to the government building.
President Confirms Arrest in "Coup d'État"
President Umaro Sissoco Embaló confirmed to Jeune Afrique publication that he was arrested at approximately 1 PM on November 26 while working in his presidential palace office. The president described the event as a "coup d'état" but noted that no physical force was used against him during his detention.
According to President Embaló, the military action was led by the army chief of staff. Several other high-ranking officials were also detained, including:
- General Biaguê Na Ntan, Armed Forces Chief of Staff
- General Mamadou Touré, Deputy Chief of Staff
- Botché Candé, Interior Minister
The outgoing president had earlier claimed victory in Sunday's presidential election, stating his own count showed he had won with 65% of the vote. However, both President Embaló's camp and opposition candidate Fernando Dias de Costa had each declared first-round victory, despite official provisional results not being expected until Thursday, November 27.
Security Situation Deteriorates Rapidly
Journalists covering the election described a rapidly worsening security environment throughout the capital. One reporter monitoring the vote count reported "gunfire at the National Electoral Commission (CNE) headquarters and areas around", adding that their team had taken shelter in the CNE communication officer's office.
The coup leaders issued an official communique stating that the "High Military Command for the Restoration of National Security and Public Order" was responding to a destabilization plot allegedly organized by certain national politicians with participation from a well-known drug baron.
This latest political turmoil adds to Guinea-Bissau's long history of military interventions and political instability since gaining independence from Portugal in 1974. The country has experienced multiple coups and attempted coups, with the military frequently intervening in political affairs.
