A group of military officers in Guinea-Bissau has been arrested this week for allegedly plotting a coup, as confirmed by a statement from the country’s armed forces. The arrests, which include several senior officers, were made following reports of their disappearance starting Monday, just a day before the official launch of the general election campaign.
Details of the Alleged Coup Attempt
The armed forces indicated that the coup plot was purportedly led by Brig. Gen. Daba Na Walna, the director of a military training school. He allegedly received support from various generals and senior officers within the military. The General Staff’s statement expressed concern that this incident jeopardizes the peace and stability necessary for socio-economic development and attracting foreign investment.
The statement did not specify the number of individuals involved or what actions would be taken against the alleged coup plotters. This incident marks the second known attempt to overthrow President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, who has been in power since 2020.
Political Context and Ongoing Tensions
The political landscape in Guinea-Bissau has been fraught with controversy leading up to the upcoming elections. The opposition argues that Embaló’s term should have concluded on February 27, 2024, but the nation’s Supreme Court ruled that it would extend until September 4, 2024. In a move that heightened tensions, Embaló announced that elections would take place on November 30, 2024, asserting that his first term would continue until that date.
The opposition has rejected Embaló’s presidency, creating a fraught political environment. In March, a mission from a West African regional bloc intended to help resolve the political crisis was forced to leave abruptly, citing threats of expulsion from the president.
Guinea-Bissau has faced numerous coups since gaining independence from Portugal over 50 years ago, making this latest incident another chapter in the nation’s turbulent political history. The international community is watching closely as the situation evolves, particularly with the elections approaching.