Military has toppled Government in Guinea-Bissau and arrested President Embaló.
NaijaOnPoint Nigeria reports that the military in Guinea-Bissau has reportedly staged a coup, overthrowing the democratic government and arresting President Umaro Sissoco Embaló.
According to The Africa Report, President Embaló was detained on Wednesday, 26 November, at about 1 p.m. inside his office at the presidential palace.
Those also arrested include the Chief of Defence Staff, General Biaguê Na Ntan; the Deputy Chief of Staff, General Mamadou Touré; and Interior Minister Botché Candé.
President Embaló, speaking after his detention, confirmed that no force was used against him, describing the development as a “coup d’état” allegedly led by the army chief of staff.
This dramatic turn follows a tense electoral standoff between Embaló and leading opposition candidate Fernando Dias. Both men have declared victory in Sunday’s presidential poll.
President Embaló claims he secured 65% of votes based on his campaign’s internal tally, while Dias insists he won the election outright. Provisional results expected Thursday must still be validated by the Supreme Court, which has not yet announced a review date.
“We won the presidential race. There will be no second round,” Dias told supporters in Bissau, claiming widespread public demand for change.
The rival declarations heightened political instability, culminating in the reported coup.
Guinea-Bissau, which has a long history of political upheaval, has experienced four successful coups since independence most recently in 2012 alongside several failed attempts.
Embaló was elected in December 2019 for a five-year term and had previously stated he would serve only one term.