Guinea-Bissau Army Seizes Control Amid Capital Gunfire
In a dramatic turn of events, military officers in Guinea-Bissau have seized control of the country amidst significant gunfire in the capital, Bissau. This action came just before the anticipated announcement of presidential election results.
Military Seizes Control in Guinea-Bissau Amid Gunfire
On November 26, 2025, the military declared “total control” over Guinea-Bissau. This announcement followed a tightly contested presidential election where both leading candidates claimed victory. In response to the unrest, the officers ordered the immediate suspension of the electoral process, effective immediately.
Key Developments
- Military ordered the closure of all borders—land, air, and sea.
- An overnight curfew was imposed “until further notice.”
- Sustained gunfire was reported near key locations, including the election commission headquarters and the presidential palace.
The results from the election, which had pitted incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embalo against challenger Fernando Dias, were expected to be revealed shortly after the military’s declaration. Observers noted that the voting process faced scrutiny, particularly from civil society groups due to the exclusion of the main opposition party, the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC).
Nicolas Haque, reporting from neighboring Senegal, indicated that the situation is tense, with the presidential palace heavily guarded. “The military is definitely in charge of the country today,” he stated, highlighting the uncertainty of President Embalo’s whereabouts.
Historic Context
Since gaining independence from Portugal in 1974, Guinea-Bissau has endured numerous attempted coups. This latest incident raises questions about the future of political stability in the West African nation.
As developments unfold, the international community is closely monitoring the situation in Guinea-Bissau. The impact of the military’s actions on the country’s democratic processes remains to be seen.
