General Horta Nta Na Man, who has proclaimed himself the leader of the transitional government, has been officially sworn in as the new president of Guinea-Bissau after a military coup.
This swearing-in took place just one day after army officers declared they had removed the country’s president, marking the latest military takeover in the West African nation.
During the ceremony held at the military headquarters on November 27, 2025, General Horta N’Tam (left) saluted an officer as he took on his new role as the transitional leader and head of the High Command.
Following the coup, which involved the arrest of the president, the military appointed General Horta N’Tam as the country’s leader for a one-year term.
“I have just been sworn in to lead the High Command,” he announced, as reported by journalists present at the event. The area was heavily guarded by armed soldiers.
Having previously served as the chief of staff of the army, Nta Na Man was known to have a close relationship with the ousted President Umaro Sissoco Embalo.
He stated that there was enough evidence to justify the military’s actions and emphasized the urgency and importance of necessary measures that require everyone’s involvement.
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The chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission condemned the military coup on Thursday and called for the immediate and unconditional release of Embalo and all other detained officials, as stated by the AU.
The military officers, who referred to themselves as “the High Military Command for the Restoration of Order,” announced their takeover in a televised statement on Wednesday, claiming they had ousted Embalo amidst ongoing instability in the country.
This coup occurred just a day before provisional election results were expected to be announced in a closely contested race between Embalo and Fernando Dias, a 47-year-old political newcomer who had emerged as a significant challenger.
On Thursday, the capital city of Bissau remained largely calm, with soldiers patrolling the streets and many residents choosing to stay indoors even after the overnight curfew was lifted. Businesses and banks were closed.
The military’s announcement of total control came shortly after gunfire was reported near key government buildings, including the election commission’s headquarters, the presidential palace, and the Ministry of the Interior.
