By Peter.
A military coup in Guinea-Bissau has left former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan and hundreds of international election observers stranded in the country, unable to depart as borders were sealed and the electoral process suspended.
What Happened
On Wednesday, November 26, 2025, a group of army officers styling themselves the “High Military Command for the Restoration of National Security and Public Order” announced they had seized power, ousting President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and halting the presidential and parliamentary elections held on November 23. The coup leaders cited a “destabilization plot” by politicians and a “drug baron,” declaring “total control” and imposing a nationwide curfew from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- Key Actions: All land, air, and sea borders closed; internet disruptions reported; arrests of opposition leader Domingos Simões Pereira (PAIGC) and electoral officials.
- Embaló’s Response: In a France 24 interview, the president confirmed his deposition and detention at general staff headquarters, calling it a “coup d’état.”
- Coup Leader: Brigadier General Denis N’Canha, head of the presidential guard—the very unit meant to protect Embaló.
The takeover came a day before official results were due, after both Embaló and rival Fernando Gomes prematurely claimed victory. Guinea-Bissau, independent from Portugal since 1974, has endured at least nine coups or attempts.
Jonathan’s Situation
Jonathan, leading the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) observer mission, arrived in Bissau on November 23. His last update, posted that day, praised the “orderly and peaceful” voting:
“Members of the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) Election Mission today conducted visits to some polling stations in Bissau as voting commenced… We wish for a smooth voting process and a peaceful, stable post-election period.”
Now trapped with observers like Mozambique’s ex-President Filipe Nyusi, Jonathan is reportedly safe in his hotel but unable to leave due to flight suspensions and border closures. A WAEF spokesperson confirmed: “The situation is tense, but our team is secure.” No official word from Jonathan since the announcement.
International Reactions
- ECOWAS & AU: Joint observers (including Jonathan and Nyusi) condemned the coup as “regrettable,” urging restoration of constitutional order and calm.
- France: Ex-colonial power expressed “deep concern” and called for dialogue.
- Nigeria: No formal statement yet, but Jonathan’s plight has sparked domestic worry; his team monitors developments.
The coup risks regional instability in coup-prone West Africa (e.g., Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso). ECOWAS may convene urgently. As observers remain holed up, the path to resolution—and Jonathan’s safe exit—remains unclear.
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