The political crisis in Guinea-Bissau has taken a strange turn. The main opposition candidate has accused deposed President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of staging a “fake” coup.
Fernando Dias was the primary challenger in last week’s presidential election. He alleges that the military takeover is a trick. According to him, the move is a strategic ruse to prevent the announcement of an opposition victory.
A “Fabricated” Transition?
Suspicion deepened on Thursday. The military inaugurated General Horta Nta Na Man as the transitional president.
The General will oversee a one-year transition period. However, he is widely known as a close ally of the ousted President.
For the opposition, this appointment is suspicious. They view the installation of a loyalist as proof that the overthrow is theater. They argue it is not a genuine regime change.
“I Won the Elections”
Dias released a video statement addressing the nation. He rejected the military’s justification for seizing power.
He insisted that he possesses proof of his victory. Dias claims polling station reports confirm he won the vote.
“I am the winner of the elections,” Dias declared. “How could I possibly orchestrate a coup?”
He argued that he had no motivation to destabilize a process he was winning.
Calm Returns to the Streets
Meanwhile, the whereabouts of President Embaló remain unknown. He reported his arrest by soldiers on Wednesday.
Despite the political drama, the public response has been muted. The opposition coalition called for protests. However, the capital city of Bissau remains relatively calm.
By Thursday morning, businesses had reopened. Public transport was operating normally. This signals that the populace may be resigned to the recurring cycle of instability.
This event mirrors a broader trend. It continues a decades-long pattern of volatility in Guinea-Bissau. The nation has experienced numerous coups since gaining independence in 1974.
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