By: Isaac Kwabena Boadu Date: 26th November, 2025
A military coup has taken place in Guinea-Bissau, with army officers declaring total control of the country and detaining President Umaro Sissoco Embalo. The move comes just a day before the expected announcement of results from the presidential and legislative elections held on November 23, 2025.
The military, led by Brigadier General Denis N’Canha, announced the suspension of all institutions, closure of borders, and imposition of a curfew. President Embalo, who was seeking re-election, had claimed victory, but his opponents disputed the results. The military cited concerns over electoral manipulation and alleged involvement of politicians and a well-known drug lord in a destabilization plan.
ECOWAS and the African Union are calling for a return to constitutional order. Portugal, the former colonizer, has expressed concern and urged dialogue.
President Embalo, who has survived several coup attempts, was reportedly arrested without resistance at his office. Other key officials, including the armed forces chief of staff and interior minister, were also detained.
Guinea-Bissau has a history of political instability, with nine coups or attempted coups since independence in 1974. The country is one of the poorest in the world and is known for its role in the cocaine trade.
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