The government of Guinea has moved to allay fears of instability in the country following reports of movements of troops and security forces in Bissau, the capital. According to the Ministry of Interior and Public Order, the country is experiencing a climate of normality, with no situation threatening national stability. The ministry's spokesperson, Agostinho Tonecas Djatá, made the reassurances during a press conference.
Djatá stated that the movements of personnel from the defense and security forces observed on September 29, 2026, were part of routine procedures. He emphasized that mobility of personnel is a normal dynamic in all branches of the defense and security forces. The spokesperson added that there was no indication of any threat to the country or the safety of the population.
The government official encouraged citizens to go about their daily activities, including attending a football match in support of the national team, known as the "Djurtus." The team had recently won a match against Nigeria. Djatá urged citizens to remain calm and participate in activities as usual.
According to Djatá, the movements of troops and security forces did not constitute an exceptional situation but rather routine administrative procedures within the army, police, and national guard. He explained that rotation and mobility of personnel are common administrative mechanisms that are part of the normal functioning of defense and security institutions.
The reassurances from the government come amid a tense political climate in the country. The announcement of Umaru Sissoko Embalo's candidacy for the presidency has sparked interest, given his recent overthrow in a military coup on November 26, 2025. Embalo plans to return from exile on October 4, 2026, to contest the presidential election scheduled for December 6, 2026.
The Ministry of Interior and Public Order's statement aims to mitigate fears of instability and encourage citizens to remain calm. The government has urged citizens to support the national team and participate in normal activities. The situation in Bissau appears to be under control, with no major incidents reported.
The Guinea government's efforts to reassure the public and maintain stability are crucial in the lead-up to the presidential election. With Embalo's return and candidacy, the country's political landscape is expected to be closely watched. The government's ability to maintain stability will be essential in ensuring a smooth electoral process.
Key points
- The Guinea government has reassured the public that the country remains stable despite movements of troops and security forces in the capital, Bissau.
- The movements of troops were part of routine procedures, according to the Ministry of Interior and Public Order.
- The government's reassurances come amid a tense political climate, with Umaru Sissoko Embalo set to return from exile and contest the presidential election.