The military takeover in Guinea-Bissau is official. The armed forces have inaugurated a new junta leader. This move cements their grip on power just days after a disputed presidential election.
On Thursday, the military high command made a televised declaration. They announced General Horta Inta-A as the head of the new military government.
The junta also outlined its immediate plans. They have set a one-year transition period. Only after this timeline will they contemplate a return to civilian rule.
“Political Failure” Cited as Justification
General Inta-A addressed the nation to justify the intervention. He previously served as the army chief of staff. Notably, he was considered a close ally of the deposed president.
Inta-A placed the blame squarely on civilian leadership.
“The inability of political actors to stem the deterioration of the political climate ultimately prompted the intervention,” Inta-A stated.
A “Fabricated” Coup?
Confusion still surrounds the situation. The whereabouts of deposed President Umaro Sissoco Embaló remain unknown on Thursday.
Before disappearing, Embaló claimed soldiers were arresting him. Gunfire had erupted around the presidential palace.
However, the opposition rejects this narrative. They allege the entire military takeover is a trick. Fernando Dias, the main challenger in Sunday’s election, claims the coup is “fabricated.”
According to Dias, the president orchestrated the chaos himself. He argues it was a ploy to disrupt the announcement of election results. Both men had prematurely claimed victory in the polls.
Calm Returns to the Capital
Despite the political turmoil, the streets remain peaceful. The opposition called for protests, but citizens have largely ignored them.
By Thursday morning, life in Bissau appeared normal. Businesses reopened their doors. Public transport resumed operations. This suggests a cautious acceptance among the population, who are familiar with political instability.
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