Military forces in Guinea-Bissau have seized complete control of the West African nation, closing all borders and dissolving state institutions amid escalating violence following disputed presidential election results.
The dramatic power grab unfolded on Wednesday as armed officers announced they had taken charge of the government, raising immediate international concerns about democratic stability in the region.
Military Takes Control Amid Election Turmoil
According to multiple reports, military personnel moved to consolidate power following days of political tension and street violence that left several people dead. The armed forces issued a statement confirming they had dissolved the government and closed all land and air borders indefinitely.
The crisis stems from the recent presidential election where both leading candidates - former finance minister Souleimane Seidi and former president Domingos Simoes Pereira - claimed victory. The electoral commission had declared Mr Seidi the winner, but Mr Pereira's supporters rejected the results, alleging widespread fraud.
Witnesses reported seeing military vehicles patrolling the streets of the capital, Bissau, while gunfire echoed through the city throughout Wednesday. The situation remains highly volatile with communications reportedly disrupted in some areas.
International Response and Regional Implications
The international community has responded with alarm to the developments. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) issued a strong condemnation of what it described as an "attempted coup" and called for the immediate restoration of constitutional order.
United Nations officials expressed deep concern about the situation, while former colonial power Portugal advised its citizens to avoid all travel to the country and recommended those already in Guinea-Bissau to remain indoors.
This latest political crisis marks another chapter in Guinea-Bissau's troubled history since gaining independence from Portugal in 1974. The nation of approximately two million people has experienced multiple coups and attempted coups since the 1990s, with the most recent successful military takeover occurring in 2012.
Humanitarian Concerns and Next Steps
Human rights organizations have raised concerns about the potential humanitarian impact of the border closures and political instability. Guinea-Bissau remains one of the world's poorest countries, and any prolonged political crisis could severely affect basic services and food security.
The military leadership has not yet outlined a clear timeline for restoring civilian rule or addressing the disputed election results. Regional mediators are reportedly attempting to establish communication with the new military authorities to negotiate a peaceful resolution.
As night fell on Wednesday, the situation remained tense with uncertainty hanging over the future of democracy in Guinea-Bissau. The international community continues to monitor developments closely, with many world leaders calling for restraint and the protection of civilian lives.
