Army officers say they have seized power in Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Bissau military says president deposed after vote
Gunshots were audible near the presidential palace and election commission HQ, three days after a contentious election claimed by both sides.Soldiers locked down the main road leading to Guinea-Bissau’s presidential palace and election commission and Interior Ministry on Wednesday, after prolonged sounds of gunfire in the area.
Soon after, a group of army officers held a press conference saying that they had seized power and deposed President Umaro Sissoco Embalo in the aftermath of the first round of general elections on Sunday.
The officers said that they had formed “The High Military Command for the Restoration of Order” and that they would remain in charge until further notice.
General Denis N’Canha, head of the presidential military office, urged members of the public to “remain calm.” He said the military command seizing power was “composed of all branches of the armed forces.”
Borders and air space closed, curfew imposed
President Embalo later spoke to the France24 broadcaster, saying “I have been deposed.” The AFP news agency cited military sources as saying the incumbent head of state was being “well-treated.”
General Denis N’Canha, head of the presidential military office, urged members of the public to “remain calm.” He said the military command seizing power was “composed of all branches of the armed forces.”
Borders and air space closed, curfew imposed
President Embalo later spoke to the France24 broadcaster, saying “I have been deposed.” The AFP news agency cited military sources as saying the incumbent head of state was being “well-treated.”
Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo talks with journalists after voting during the presidential election at a polling station, Umaro Djabula in Gabu, Guinea-Bissau, November 23, 2025. Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo talks with journalists after voting during the presidential election at a polling station, Umaro Djabula in Gabu, Guinea-Bissau, November 23, 2025.
President Umaro Sissoco Embalo and his challenger both claimed victory in the
Elections.
