Gunshots rang out across Bissau on Wednesday as Guinea-Bissau was thrust into fresh political turmoil following claims by President Umaro Sissoco Embaló that he was arrested inside the presidential palace in what he described as a coup d’état in progress.
According to The Africa Report, the President said the incident began around 1 p.m. when armed elements stormed his office at the Palácio da República. Embaló, who spoke shortly after to Jeune Afrique, confirmed that he was detained during the dramatic confrontation, although he stressed that the operation was carried out “without the use of force.”
The President accused the country’s Army Chief of Staff of orchestrating the move against him, heightening fears of a widening rift within Guinea-Bissau’s fragile security apparatus. Embaló, who contested last Sunday’s presidential election, insists that he won the poll by a wide margin, claiming—based on his own tally—to have secured 65 per cent of the votes cast.
His assertion of victory comes amid rising political tension following the contentious vote, with rival camps trading accusations and the country’s electoral commission yet to officially pronounce on the result.
Wednesday’s incident triggered panic across the capital, where residents reported sporadic gunfire near key government installations. Security sources said parts of Bissau were swiftly cordoned off as soldiers deployed around sensitive locations.
The latest unrest adds to Guinea-Bissau’s long history of coups, attempted coups, and political instability. Analysts say the unfolding confrontation could deepen institutional fractures and plunge the West African nation into yet another governance crisis unless urgent mediation steps are taken.
As of press time, the whereabouts of loyal security forces, the response from regional blocs such as ECOWAS, and the evolving balance of power within the military remained unclear.
