Gunfire, Closed Borders as Bissau Falls Under Military Control

By Bruno Ramirez

Heavy gunfire echoed across Bissau early Wednesday as soldiers seized key streets and surrounded government buildings, marking the country’s latest descent into military rule. Residents awoke to armed patrols, blocked roads and an uneasy silence blanketing the capital.

By mid-morning, senior officers appeared on state television announcing that they had taken power and formed a new governing body, the “High Military Command for the Restoration of Order.” The junta suspended the electoral process, dismissed top government officials and ordered the closure of all land, sea, and air borders.

Shortly after, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló confirmed to local media that he had been arrested and “deposed.” His removal underscored the dramatic collapse of an administration that had long vowed to restore stability in a nation haunted by political turmoil.

The coup leaders accused the president of overseeing a “compromised” electoral process and manipulating state institutions for political gain. They vowed to “reset the nation” and restore order.

Witnesses reported gunfire near the presidential palace, the Ministry of Interior, and the National Electoral Commission headquarters. Soldiers were seen blocking major intersections, ordering businesses to close and stopping residents from filming the unfolding events.

The crisis follows a tense general election marked by controversy. The main opposition party was barred from participating, sparking widespread criticism. Days before the coup, both Embaló and his main challenger claimed victory, plunging the country into a constitutional deadlock.

Analysts say months of political infighting, the collapse of parliament, and deep mistrust in electoral institutions left Guinea-Bissau vulnerable to a military takeover.

By nightfall, a strict curfew had emptied the capital. Markets, transport hubs and major streets were deserted as residents remained indoors, fearful of further clashes.

The military leadership has promised to stabilize the country and pave the way for a “credible” electoral process, but offered no clear timeline or transition plan. For now, Guinea-Bissau remains tense, uncertain, and under firm military control.