Guinea Bissau president flees to Senegal following armed confrontation in capital
The President of Guinea Bissau has fled to Senegal after violent clashes erupted between loyalist security forces and armed factions in Bissau. The incident marks another political crisis for the country, which has recorded numerous coup attempts since gaining independence. According to government officials, the president left the country late Tuesday night after receiving intelligence suggesting that the confrontation could escalate into a full overthrow attempt.
Eyewitnesses reported heavy gunfire near key government installations, including the Ministry of Finance and the national broadcasting facility. The situation intensified when members of an elite military group attempted to seize control of parts of the capital. Loyalist forces pushed back, resulting in an extended firefight that left several people injured. While authorities have not released the exact number of casualties, local residents confirmed that multiple civilians fled their neighbourhoods to seek safety.
Before departing for Senegal, the president met with senior advisers and vowed to return once the situation stabilised. He maintained that the unrest was orchestrated by individuals seeking to destabilise the government and undermine the progress made in recent economic and social reforms. His communication team said he will continue performing his duties from Senegal until security experts confirm that it is safe for him to return.
Regional leaders across West Africa have expressed concern about the latest crisis. The Economic Community of West African States issued a statement condemning the unrest and warning that political instability in Guinea Bissau threatens the peace and security of the region. They urged military factions to respect constitutional authority and refrain from escalating tensions.
Security analysts say Guinea Bissau has long struggled with internal divisions, partly due to competing influences among political groups, the military and economic interests linked to illicit trade. These tensions have created an environment where power struggles easily transform into violent confrontations.
Residents of Bissau remain unsettled as fear and uncertainty spread across the city. Businesses closed early, transportation was limited and schools suspended operations. Several families have taken refuge with relatives in safer parts of the city while others moved temporarily to rural communities.
Senegalese authorities have assured that they will provide the president with temporary protection until the crisis is resolved. They also revealed that talks are underway with ECOWAS leaders to explore peaceful mediation. Experts believe that unless both political and military leaders commit to a long term political settlement, Guinea Bissau may continue facing cycles of instability.
