Fresh political turmoil erupted in Guinea-Bissau on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, after the military announced it had taken control of the country, suspending the democratic process and arresting key political figures.
In a broadcast on state television, a group of senior officers declared that the armed forces had assumed “total control” of Guinea-Bissau. They announced the formation of a governing body reportedly known as the High Military Command for the Restoration of Order, which will run state affairs until further notice.
The takeover came just days after the country held presidential and legislative elections on November 23. Provisional results were expected to be announced later this week, but the military has now suspended the entire electoral process, fueling uncertainty over the country’s political future.
Eyewitnesses reported sustained gunfire in parts of the capital, Bissau, including areas around the presidential palace, the national election commission, and the interior ministry. The military leadership subsequently ordered the closure of land, air, and sea borders, imposed a nationwide curfew, and restricted media operations.
President Umaro Sissoco Embaló was reportedly arrested at the presidential palace, alongside other senior government officials and top military commanders. Coup leaders justified their actions by alleging an imminent plot to manipulate election results, involving both domestic and foreign actors.
The elections themselves had already been highly contentious. Major opposition figures disputed the credibility of the process, while the historic PAIGC party—central to Guinea-Bissau’s independence struggle—was barred from fielding candidates. Both the incumbent president and opposition contenders had claimed victory even before official results were released.
Guinea-Bissau has a long record of political instability and frequent military вмешательство. Since gaining independence in 1974, the country has experienced multiple coups and attempted coups, making this latest takeover one of several interruptions to civilian rule.
The development has raised serious concerns within West Africa and beyond, especially as several countries in the region have experienced military takeovers in recent years. Observers warn the coup could trigger international sanctions, disrupt foreign aid, and deepen economic hardship in one of the world’s poorest nations.
As of press time, regional and international bodies were closely monitoring the situation, while citizens remain anxious about the direction the country will take under renewed military rule.