Possible Coup d’état in Guinea-Bissau (1 Feb 2022)

Reports have emerged of a possible coup d’état in Guinea-Bissau. As of Tuesday 1 February evening, the situation in the country remains tense in the wake of an incident that occurred earlier in the day. This incident has been described by both the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as an attempted coup. At around 15:00, shots and explosions were heard near the Government Palace in the capital, Bissau. The incident occurred as President Umaro Embalo was chairing a meeting of the Council of Ministers. Reports indicate that military forces have deployed to several locations of the capital city and have established a security perimeter around the Palace of Government and have stationed troops near the Palace of justice. Reports further indicate that the military may have entered the National Television station building, though these have not been verified. The situation in Guinea-Bissau remains fluid and the current whereabouts of President Embalo and Prime Minister Nuno Gomes Nabiam remain unclear.

Advisory

The situation is rapidly developing and MS Risk is currently closely monitoring events on the ground in Guinea-Bissau. Anyone currently in the country, including the capital city Bissau, is strongly advised to shelter in place, maintain close contact with their diplomatic representations, adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities, including any possible curfew-related restrictions that could be imposed in the coming hours. Avoid government buildings, security installations, large concentrations of soldiers and police, and any demonstrations that may occur.  It is likely that security across the city will remain extremely tight in the coming hours. It is possible that local authorities could implement movement restrictions, which could potentially include curfews. Telecommunications could be restricted in the coming hours.