In brief
Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embaló has been arrested by armed men amid reported gunfire near the presidential palace. Witnesses reported hearing shots in the capital Bissau shortly after a controversial election where the main opposition candidate was disqualified. This incident has led to civilian unrest, with hundreds fleeing the scene for safety. Historically, Guinea-Bissau has faced numerous coups since achieving independence, raising questions about the future of its governance amidst political turmoil.
Guinea-Bissau's President Umaro Sissoco Embaló has been arrested by armed men, government sources informed us today after reports of gunfire near the presidential palace.
Witnesses in the capital, Bissau, heard gunshots around 13:00 GMT, although it remains unclear who was involved in the shooting.
This incident comes shortly after a presidential election in which the main opposition candidate was disqualified. Both Embaló and his main rival, Fernando Dias, claimed victory as results were anticipated on Thursday.
As the gunfire erupted, hundreds of individuals took to their feet and vehicles, seeking safety according to the AFP news agency.
Guinea-Bissau, a country with a population just under two million, is among the poorest globally and has a tumultuous history marked by nine coups or attempted coups since 1980. Embaló himself has faced two previous attempts on his leadership, the most recent occurring in December 2023.
This is a breaking news story; further updates will follow.
