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Military Faction Seizes Power in Guinea-Bissau, Halts Presidential Vote

President Umaro Sissoco Embaló reports detention, with his status unclear.

Overview

  • Officers read a coup declaration at armed forces headquarters, with Brig. Gen. Denis N’Canha announcing they had taken total control until further notice.
  • The self-described command suspended the presidential election and annulled expected results after both Embaló and challenger Fernando Dias da Costa claimed victory.
  • The statement said borders and airspace were closed and a nationwide curfew was imposed.
  • Embaló said he was arrested inside the presidential palace and accused Army Chief Antonio Indjai of leading the takeover.
  • Witnesses reported gunfire near the palace and troops securing key roads, while the Russian embassy cited conflicting accounts about Embaló’s condition.