Military Seizes Power in Guinea-Bissau, President Arrested

In West Africa, the military in Guinea-Bissau has seized power and arrested the country’s president. This move occurred just one day before the announcement of the presidential election results.

A group of military officers, identifying themselves as the High Military Command, said they carried out the action to restore order. In a television statement on Wednesday, they claimed full control over the country. The statement also instructed that the electoral process be suspended until further orders. Additionally, all land, air, and sea borders have been closed, and a curfew has been imposed.

In the capital Bissau, heavy gunfire was reported near the headquarters of the election commission, the presidential palace, and the Ministry of Interior.

In Sunday’s presidential election, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and his main rival Fernando Dias were in a tight contest. Both declared victory prior to the announcement of results. The election outcome was scheduled to be announced on Thursday.

Speaking to French broadcaster France 24, President Embaló stated that he had been deposed. He is currently at the General Staff Headquarters. Al Jazeera correspondent Nicolas Hack, reporting from neighbouring Senegal, confirmed that Embaló was arrested on Wednesday afternoon. The leader of the coup, military officer Denis N’Canha, who served as head of the presidential guard, carried out the arrest. The head of the main opposition party, Domingos Simões Pereira, has also been detained.

Since gaining independence from Portugal in 1974, Guinea-Bissau has experienced multiple coups and attempted coups. This election was also controversial.

Khaborwala/TSN