Guinea-Bissau Coup: Military Seizes Power and Suspends Election Results

Military forces seized control of Guinea-Bissau on November 27, 2025. The coup suspended contested presidential election results. President Umaro Sissoco Embaló fled to neighboring Senegal.General Horta Nta Na Man was sworn in as transitional leader. The military announced a one-year transition period. This marks the country’s ninth coup attempt since independence.

How the Military Takeover Unfolded

Heavy gunfire erupted near government buildings in Bissau. Soldiers detained President Embaló and opposition leaders. The army also arrested the interior minister and military chiefs.Election authorities were preparing to announce results. Both main candidates had claimed victory. The military suspended the entire electoral process immediately.According to Reuters, soldiers used tear gas against protesters. The junta imposed a nationwide curfew. Land and air borders closed temporarily.Military leaders cited political instability as their reason. They claimed politicians threatened national security. The African Union condemned the takeover strongly.

International Response and Regional Impact

Regional bloc ECOWAS suspended Guinea-Bissau’s membership. The United Nations called for constitutional order. Portugal urged peaceful resolution.Senegal provided refuge for President Embaló. Nigerian election observers were reportedly safe. Regional leaders held emergency meetings.This coup continues West Africa’s troubling trend. Military takeovers have affected several nations recently. The region faces growing democratic challenges.International partners demanded prisoner releases. They insisted on restoring civilian rule. Economic sanctions remain possible.

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The Guinea-Bissau coup highlights persistent instability in West Africa. The military’s one-year transition promise faces international skepticism. The nation’s democratic future now hangs in precarious balance.

Thought you’d like to know

What caused the Guinea-Bissau coup?

The military cited political instability and contested elections. Both candidates claimed victory before official results. Security concerns were also mentioned.

Who is leading Guinea-Bissau now?

General Horta Nta Na Man leads the transitional government. He was sworn in at military headquarters. The junta promises elections within one year.

How has the international community reacted?

The African Union and ECOWAS condemned the takeover. The UN called for constitutional order restoration. Regional bodies suspended Guinea-Bissau’s membership.

What happens to the election results?

The military suspended all election proceedings indefinitely. No official results were released before the coup. The voting process is now frozen.

Is this common in Guinea-Bissau?

This marks the ninth coup or attempt since 1974. The country has experienced persistent political instability. Military interventions have occurred frequently.

What is the current situation in Bissau?

Soldiers patrol the streets amid tense calm. Businesses and schools remain closed. The overnight curfew has been lifted but uncertainty persists.