What You Need to Know About the Coup in Guinea‑Bissau

Background

The political climate in Guinea‑Bissau has become increasingly volatile following rumors of a covert power shift within the government. The opposition parties allege that a senior military officer has been installed as the de facto head of the administration.

Alleged Motive

According to opposition leaders, the appointment of this new general is a strategic move designed to bolster the sitting president’s grip on power. They argue that the military figure is being used as a puppet to legitimize decisions that favor the president’s agenda.

Key Claims from the Opposition

“We are witnessing a back‑door coup,” said a spokesperson for the main opposition coalition. “The president is leveraging the military to sideline democratic institutions and silence dissent.”

Potential Impact

If the allegations are true, the maneuver could further erode democratic norms in the West African nation, prompting concerns from regional bodies and international observers about the stability of the country’s political system.