Former President Goodluck Jonathan has been unable to leave Guinea-Bissau following a sudden military takeover that disrupted the country’s election process. He was in the country as part of an international election observer team when soldiers moved in and took control of major state institutions.
The crisis started after the presidential election, when both the sitting president, Umaro Sissoco Embaló, and opposition figure Fernando Dias claimed victory before official results were released. This led to fear, unrest, and growing tension in the capital.
Soon after, senior military officers announced that they had taken over power and stopped the electoral process. They declared that governance would now be under military control until further notice. This action created uncertainty and left many foreign visitors trapped in the country.
Security forces quickly closed all entry and exit points. Airports, land borders, and sea routes were shut down, stopping flights and travel. Hundreds of people rushed to leave, but no movement was allowed, including Jonathan and members of his team.
A night-time curfew was also announced. Roads became empty as residents stayed indoors. Soldiers began heavy patrols around key areas, and daily activities such as business and transport were brought to a halt across the country.
Foreign embassies and regional groups are now watching the situation closely as they wait for updates on the country’s leadership and the safety of those trapped inside Guinea-Bissau.