Bissau, Guinea-Bissau – November 28, 2025 – Guinea-Bissau’s new military ruler, General Horta Inta-A, has appointed Finance Minister Ilidio Vieira Te as the country’s prime minister, consolidating control following a coup that deposed President Umaro Sissoco Embalo.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Presidential Palace in Bissau, with both Inta-A and Te emphasizing a commitment to “work hand-in-hand” in the transitional government. Te previously served in Embalo’s administration and directed his campaign in last Sunday’s contested presidential election.

Coup Sparks Regional Condemnation

The military takeover, announced days before provisional election results were due, has drawn swift condemnation from regional and international bodies:

• African Union: Suspended Guinea-Bissau “with immediate effect.”
• ECOWAS: Froze the country out of all decision-making bodies.
• United Nations: Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the coup as an “unacceptable violation of democratic principles.”
• European Union: Called for a “swift return to constitutional order and resumption of the electoral process.”

Opposition candidate Fernando Dias claimed he had won the election and accused Embalo of orchestrating the coup to block his victory. Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, leading a West African election observer mission, described the situation as a “ceremonial coup” staged to maintain Embalo in power.

Human Rights Concerns

UN human rights chief Volker Turk reported at least 18 arbitrary detentions, including government officials, magistrates, and opposition politicians. Turk urged the military to respect fundamental freedoms, release detainees, and allow peaceful assembly.

Calm Returns to Bissau

Despite tensions, the capital’s curfew was lifted on Friday. Streets, markets, commercial banks, and the main stock exchange have reopened, as residents resume daily life.

Boubacar Embalo, a 25-year-old street vendor, told AFP, “I resumed my work because if I stay home, I will have nothing to eat.”

The transitional government faces significant international scrutiny as it seeks to stabilize the nation and manage the contested electoral process.