The capital city of Bissau woke up to a strong military presence on Thursday, with significantly restricted movement of people and vehicles. Main avenues were under surveillance, creating an atmosphere of high tension following the military takeover. The Military High Command swore in Major-General Horta Inta-A as the Transition President and leader of the Military Command, giving him a one-year mandate.
In his inauguration speech, Major-General Horta Inta-A stated that the dissolution of sovereign bodies was necessary to restore order and stability in the country. He vowed to firmly combat narcotics trafficking networks, which he described as a direct threat to national sovereignty. He also called for collaboration from political actors, civil society, and youth to ensure peace and stability during the transition period.
Major-General Horta Inta-A, a prominent figure in the country's military and political circles, built his career in the National Guard and the Armed Forces General Staff. He held command positions in the National Guard and was dismissed from his duties in September 2023, only to quickly return to the center of national decision-making. Before the events leading to the military coup, he served as the Chief of Staff to the deposed President of the Republic.
The Economic Community of West African States (CEDEAO) has unequivocally condemned the coup in Guinea-Bissau, classifying it as a grave violation of constitutional order. In a statement released on Thursday, the President of the Conference of Heads of State and Government demanded the immediate resumption of the electoral process without coercion or interference. The organization expressed deep concern over the detention of President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, high-ranking state officials, and members of the Electoral Commission.
CEDEAO called for the immediate and unconditional release of all detainees, emphasizing that the coup authors are responsible for their safety and the country's stability. The organization reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy for unconstitutional changes in government, stating it is prepared to take all necessary measures to restore democratic order. The statement also appealed for calm from the civil society and political actors, assuring continued support for the Guinean people in defending peace and constitutional governance.
On Wednesday, the Military Command announced that it had assumed all state powers. In a statement, the Military High Command declared the deposition of President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and the suspension of the Republic's Constitution. According to Colonel Dinis Incanha, spokesperson for the Military High Command, the decision was motivated by the discovery of an alleged plan to destabilize the country, supposedly sponsored by "drug barons," with the aim of manipulating the electoral process.
The Military Command has ordered the total suspension of the ongoing electoral process, among other immediate measures. The situation remains tense, with the international community watching closely. The country's future now hangs in the balance as the military navigates the transition period.
Key points
- The military junta in Guinea-Bissau has appointed Major-General Horta Inta-A as transition leader.
- CEDEAO has condemned the coup and demanded the restoration of democratic order.
- The military has suspended the Constitution and the electoral process.
