In an unprecedented turn of events, Guinea-Bissau has plunged into political uncertainty after armed men reportedly abducted President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, despite the presence of his full security detail.
The shocking incident has sent shockwaves across West Africa, sparking widespread concern and a flurry of international reactions.
According to sources within the army, President Embalo was forcibly taken by unidentified gunmen who were determined to topple his government.
The country’s army quickly moved to announce that it had assumed control, with the commander declaring the formation of a new governing body named “The High Military Command for the Restoration of Order.” The military stated it would lead the country until further notice.
The coup unfolded in the capital city, Bissau, with gunfire reported at key government locations, including the presidential palace, the electoral commission headquarters, and the interior ministry.
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Witnesses described the gunfire as lasting for about an hour, eventually subsiding by 1400 GMT, leaving the city tense and on edge.
This dramatic seizure of power comes just a day before the nation’s electoral commission was expected to announce provisional results from a fiercely contested presidential election.
The election pitted incumbent President Embalo against top challenger Fernando Dias, with both sides claiming victory in the first-round vote held on Sunday. Political tensions had been running high, and the abrupt military takeover has only heightened the sense of instability.
Reports indicate that the military officers involved in the coup have justified their actions as necessary to restore order in a nation they describe as “politically chaotic.”
However, many international observers are viewing the move as a dangerous setback for Guinea-Bissau, a country already familiar with political turbulence and coups.
The international community has reacted with alarm. Several African Union officials have condemned the seizure of power, calling for the immediate release of President Embalo and urging restraint from all parties.
Neighboring countries in West Africa have also expressed concern, warning that the incident could destabilize the region.
Local residents expressed mixed reactions to the unfolding crisis. While some fear escalating violence, others voiced support for the army, citing frustrations with the political deadlock and alleged governance failures.
Social media platforms have been flooded with speculation, unverified reports, and calls for calm, reflecting the uncertainty gripping the nation.
As Guinea-Bissau navigates this critical juncture, the world watches closely. Analysts warn that the coming days will be crucial in determining whether the country returns to constitutional order or descends into further chaos.
With the presidential election results pending, the situation remains highly volatile, and the path forward is uncertain.
The latest developments in Guinea-Bissau serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions in some regions, and the ongoing struggle between civilian governance and military influence.
As the country faces an uncertain future, international organizations and local actors alike are calling for dialogue, accountability, and a swift resolution to prevent further destabilization.
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