The West African nation of Guinea-Bissau has declared itself the “full ruler” of the country after the arrest of President Umaro Sissoko Embalo. Top military officials appeared on television on Wednesday to declare themselves “in full control” of the country, as political instability following a disputed presidential election deepened.
The military leadership announced the indefinite suspension of election activities, the closure of borders and the imposition of a night-time curfew. The move was taken in a statement, saying it was aimed at “restoring law and order.”
Earlier, gunfire was heard near the presidential palace, the interior ministry and the electoral commission, shortly after the military announced its seizure of power. Embalo and his main rival Fernando Diaz both claimed victory in Sunday’s presidential election; the results were due to be announced on Thursday, but control of the country changed before then.
“I have been ousted. I am now at the army’s general staff headquarters,” President Embalo said in a brief phone interview with AFP. Opposition leader Domingos Simoes Pereira was also reportedly arrested.
Al Jazeera reports that the military is attempting to cut off internet connections and a strict curfew is in place. The coup is being led by Denis N’Kanha, head of the Presidential Guard—who was in charge of the president’s security.
The country has experienced multiple military interventions since independence in 1974. Tensions have been heightened this time as the main opposition party was not allowed to contest in the controversial elections.