Guinea-Bissau Military Seizes Power Following Recent National Elections, Detains President Embaló

Military forces in Guinea-Bissau have announced a coup d'état, seizing control of government just days after the country held national elections. Soldiers appeared on state television declaring they have taken power, while President Umaro Sissoco Embaló has been detained by coup participants. The takeover marks another instance of political instability in the West African nation, which has experienced multiple military interventions in recent decades. International observers and regional organizations are closely monitoring the situation as questions emerge about the military's justification and timeline for restoring democratic processes. The timing of the coup—occurring so soon after elections—raises concerns about whether the results would have been disputed or contested had normal democratic procedures continued. Economic implications and potential sanctions from international bodies loom as the international community evaluates its response to the military intervention.