Guinea-Bissau: President Embaló Speaks, Says Coup Failed, Perpetrators Arrested

Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Embaló addressed the media following a coup attempt in the West African country on Tuesday, according to the New York Times.

President Embaló told the media that many members of his own security forces had been slain in what he described as a failed attack on democracy. Some of the perpetrators, he added, had been apprehended.

He explained, "It wasn't just a coup." "It was a plot to assassinate the president, prime minister, and entire government."

"Armed assailants attempted to break into the building but were repulsed. They were well-prepared and organised, and they may have ties to drug traffickers," he continued.

Soldiers opened fire near a government facility where the president was chairing a cabinet meeting, prompting the president's reply.

Since 2020, at least six coup attempts have occurred in African countries, raising fears about the region's democracy.

The military attack in Guinea-Bissau has been condemned by regional organisations and the United Nations.

"The evolution of the situation in Guinea-Bissau... where military firing is taking place surrounding the Government Palace is being closely monitored by ECOWAS," the regional group said in a statement on Tuesday.

Moussa Mahamat, the African Union Commission's chairperson, stated in a statement that the situation in Guinea Bissau is causing him considerable concern.

"He calls on the military to return to their barracks immediately and to ensure President Umaro Sissoco Embalo's and his government's physical integrity, as well as the quick release of those detained among them." Mr. Mahamat explained.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the situation indicated a worrying trend.

"We're seeing a dreadful proliferation of coups," he added. "Our fervent request is for soldiers to return to their barracks and for the constitutional order to be fully restored."

Since gaining independence from Portugal 48 years ago, Guinea-Bissau has survived at least four successful coups, the most recent in 2012. There have also been roughly a dozen attempted coups.