Guinea-Bissau has fallen under full military control after army officers announced on state television that they have seized power amid escalating post-election tensions. The officers declared that all state institutions have been dissolved and the armed forces are now in charge of the country.
According to international media reports, gunfire erupted near key government installations, including the Electoral Commission building, as soldiers surrounded strategic locations across the capital, Bissau. Witnesses said the military moved swiftly following disputes linked to the country’s contested electoral process.
The military commanders stated that the takeover was necessary to “restore order” after what they described as a breakdown in governance. Some reports indicate that President Umaro Sissoco Embaló has been detained or is under military restriction, though this has not yet been independently confirmed.
Borders have been closed, and the military has suspended the ongoing electoral process, urging citizens to remain calm while they “secure the nation.” International observers are closely monitoring the situation, with rising concerns about instability in the already fragile West African region.
More updates will follow as the situation develops.
