Guinea-Bissau military junta blocks return of exiled former president

Military authorities in Bissau have rejected the planned homecoming of Umaro Sissoco Embalo, citing security concerns ahead of upcoming elections.

According to news agency AFP, the Guinea-Bissau military junta stated that necessary safety conditions are currently not in place to guarantee the return of the exiled former leader. Embalo, who has been living in exile in Morocco following his ousting, had previously announced intentions to travel back to the West African nation and participate in the upcoming political race.

Guinea-Bissau military junta cites security concerns

The army seized power in November 2025, just days after a presidential vote, thereby suspending the electoral process. During the coup, General Horta N’Tam – who previously served as Embalo’s chief security officer at the presidency – overthrew the administration. Despite being a close associate of Embalo, the leadership under the Guinea-Bissau military junta decided to block his homecoming after analysing the national security environment, AFP says.

Official statements emphasised that the decision was based strictly on preserving public order, maintaining social stability, and safeguarding overall tranquillity within the nation. The military high command noted that restrictions on public demonstrations, political gatherings, and meetings – which were originally imposed when the army took control – will remain strictly enforced across the country.

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Despite these restrictions, the ruling authorities have scheduled presidential and legislative elections for December 6 with the stated aim of restoring civilian rule, reports AFP. Embalo had previously informed reporters that he intended to run in these scheduled polls, though it remains unclear whether the recent announcement regarding his security restrictions will impact the broader electoral timetable.

Wedged geographically between Senegal and Guinea, the nation has a turbulent political history, having experienced five successful coups and numerous attempted putsches since gaining independence from Portugal in 1974. 

As preparations continue, the Guinea-Bissau military junta maintains strict control over the political landscape, balancing its commitment to holding December elections with stringent measures governing national security and public order.