Bissau, November 26, 2025 – A dramatic military coup unfolded in Guinea-Bissau today as soldiers appeared on national television declaring they’ve taken control of the government. The announcement came hours after reports of heavy gunfire near the presidential palace in the capital, Bissau.

By Qamar Farooqui | International Desk

In a shocking escalation of political instability in West Africa, soldiers in Guinea-Bissau announced on state television today that they have seized total control of the government, just three days after presidential elections. The declaration came amid reports of heavy gunfire near the presidential palace in the capital, Bissau, with President Umaro Sissoco Embaló reportedly arrested in his office. The military, identifying as the “High Military Command for the Restoration of Order,” suspended all state institutions, closed borders, and imposed a curfew, citing an alleged plot to “destabilize the country” involving politicians, drug barons, and electoral manipulation.

The coup leaders, led by Brigadier General Denis N’Canha (head of the presidential guard) and spokesperson Dinis N’Tchama, broadcast their statement flanked by armed soldiers, vowing to “restore national and public order until further notice.” Embaló, who claimed victory in the November 23 election with 65% of votes, confirmed his detention in a call to Jeune Afrique, alleging the plot was orchestrated by the army chief of staff. Opposition candidate Fernando Dias de Costa had also declared victory, setting the stage for post-election chaos.

Timeline of the Chaos: From Elections to Gunfire

The events unfolded rapidly:

• November 23: Presidential election held amid high tensions; both candidates claim wins.
• November 25: Reports of an “operational scheme” involving drug barons and vote rigging surface.
• November 26 (Morning): Gunfire erupts near the presidential palace, election commission, and Interior Ministry. Soldiers block roads and cut internet access.
• Afternoon: Military seizes state TV, announces coup, and detains Embaló. Borders sealed; curfew enforced.

Guinea-Bissau, a former Portuguese colony, has endured four successful coups and numerous attempts since independence in 1974, often fueled by drug trafficking routes and ethnic rivalries. The 2019 election crisis lasted four months, highlighting chronic instability.

Regional and Global Repercussions: ECOWAS on Alert

The takeover threatens fragile peace in West Africa, where coups have proliferated (e.g., Niger 2023, Burkina Faso 2022). ECOWAS condemned the action and summoned an emergency summit, warning of sanctions if constitutional order isn’t restored. Neighboring Senegal closed borders, while UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for “restraint and dialogue.”

For the global community, Guinea-Bissau’s role as a cashew exporter (world’s second-largest) and narcotics transit hub raises alarms. The EU and France, key donors, expressed “deep concern” over democratic backsliding.

India’s Stake: Diplomatic Watch Amid Trade Ties

India, with modest but growing ties to Guinea-Bissau (diplomatic relations since 1974), is monitoring closely. Annual trade hovers at $50 million, mainly cashews and pharmaceuticals. The Indian embassy in Bissau issued a high alert for its 200-strong community, advising shelter-in-place. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar tweeted support for “peaceful resolution,” aligning with India’s non-interventionist stance in African affairs.

A successful coup could embolden similar unrest in Sahel nations, indirectly affecting India’s $10 billion annual trade with ECOWAS. Analysts at ORF Delhi warn: “West African instability disrupts supply chains for India’s agro-imports.”

Conclusion: A Familiar Pattern, A New Crisis

As night falls in Bissau, streets are empty under curfew, and the fate of Embaló remains unclear. The military’s “restoration” pledge echoes past coups, but international pressure may force a reversal. With elections suspended, Guinea-Bissau teeters on the brink—will this be another chapter in instability, or a turning point?

For the 2 million people of this cashew-rich nation, the answer can’t come soon enough. Stay tuned for updates.

Qamar Farooqui is Editor-in-Chief at News360 Live. Follow for global affairs from an Indian lens. Share your views: Can ECOWAS stop the coup wave? Comment below.

(Word count: 912 | Published on news360.live | Tags: Guinea-Bissau coup 2025, West Africa military takeover, ECOWAS response, India Guinea-Bissau ties)