Guinea‑Bissau general sworn in as interim leader 2025 after coup upends election

Guinea‑Bissau general sworn in as interim leader 2025 amid political upheaval

A top army general in Guinea‑Bissau was officially sworn in as transitional president on 27 November 2025, hours after soldiers toppled the civilian government in a swift military coup. The takeover occurred just before the announcement of election results, triggering national and regional concern.

What happened: Coup, seizure of power and new interim leadership

Armed officers declared they had deposed the sitting president after a disputed vote, claiming control under a newly formed military council. They halted the electoral process, closed borders, and imposed a state of emergency to justify the takeover.

At a ceremonial oath-taking, General Horta N’Tam assumed leadership as head of the newly declared High Military Command for the Restoration of National Security and Public Order, claiming the takeover was necessary to address threats from corruption and organized crime, though no detailed evidence was provided.

The junta announced that the transitional government would rule for one year, effectively suspending constitutional order and electoral institutions indefinitely.

Implications: Instability, regional reaction and uncertainty

The coup and installation of a military ruler have deepened political instability. Guinea‑Bissau has now returned to the list of nations where the military arbitrates governance, a pattern seen across parts of West Africa.

Regional bodies and international observers have condemned the takeover. Many worry about the collapse of the democratic process, potential human rights violations, and risks to civil society.

The uncertainty threatens economic ties, foreign aid, and regional integration. Citizens may face a fragile future, as governance, public services, and civil liberties could suffer under prolonged military rule.

Legacy of recurring coups: A troubling pattern

This is not Guinea‑Bissau’s first coup. Since independence in 1974, the country has experienced repeated military interventions, undermining institutional stability and public trust.

The persistent cycle of coups has entrenched political volatility. Weak institutions, corruption, and criminal networks, including drug trafficking, exacerbate the risks, leaving the country highly vulnerable to prolonged instability.

Conclusion: A fragile moment for Guinea‑Bissau — what to watch next

With General Horta N’Tam now in charge, Guinea‑Bissau enters an unstable transitional period. The 2025 coup has upended democratic norms and created widespread uncertainty.

The coming months are critical. Whether the junta restores constitutional order or deepens authoritarian rule will determine the country’s stability and its role in regional politics.