Guinea-Bissau’s Ousted President Embalo Released to Senegal Following Coup

Guinea-Bissau’s Ousted President Embalo Released to Senegal Following Coup

Former Guinea-Bissau president Umaro Sissoco Embalo was transferred to Senegal on Thursday, one day after military officers took control in a coup.

According to a statement from Senegal’s Foreign Ministry, Mr. Embalo’s arrival followed discussions between Senegalese authorities and regional leaders aimed at ensuring his safety after the government of Guinea-Bissau was overthrown. The coup occurred when a faction of the military seized key national institutions, effectively ending Embalo’s administration.

Regional organizations, including the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), condemned the coup and called for a swift return to constitutional order. The situation has raised concerns about another interruption to democratic governance in West Africa, a region already facing multiple coups in recent years.

“Senegal reaffirms its commitment to regional stability and its support for democratic order in Guinea-Bissau,” the ministry said.

Diplomatic sources indicated that Embalo is expected to remain in Senegal temporarily under protective supervision while regional bodies deliberate on next steps.

Background

Embalo, who took office in 2020 after a disputed election, faced growing discontent within the military and political elite amid accusations of corruption and misuse of power. His removal marks yet another challenge for Guinea-Bissau, a country long plagued by political instability and military interventions.


Author’s summary: Umaro Sissoco Embalo, deposed by a coup, was transferred safely to Senegal as ECOWAS and regional leaders call for restoring democratic order in Guinea-Bissau.

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Morning Star Morning Star — 2025-11-28

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