Guinea-Bissau Political Transition: Junta Releases Opposition Leaders Amid Regional Scrutiny
London, 6 February 2026 – The Republic of Guinea-Bissau remains in a state of significant political flux following the military coup d’état on 26 November 2025. In a series of pivotal developments over the last week, the ruling military junta has begun releasing high-profile political detainees, including opposition leader Domingos Simões Pereira, in an apparent bid to signal a move towards national reconciliation. However, the political landscape remains fractured as key presidential claimants continue to reject power-sharing proposals offered by the transitional authorities.
Junta Consolidates Power Amidst Calls for Dialogue
Following the seizure of power in late 2025, which military officers claimed was necessary due to a stagnant economy and government insolvency, the junta has taken steps to formalise its leadership. General Horta N’Tam recently elevated his rank to Major General, a move viewed by regional analysts as a consolidation of authority. Despite this, the junta has faced intense pressure from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to restore democratic order.
On 31 January 2026, Domingos Simões Pereira, leader of the PAIGC, was released from detention. While the junta has vowed to include the PAIGC in a new inclusive government, the offer has met with resistance. Fernando Dias da Costa, who claimed victory in the disputed November 2025 presidential election, has officially rejected the junta’s power-sharing plan, further complicating the path to a civilian-led administration.
National Reconciliation and Regional Impact
The Catholic Diocese of Bafatá has utilised its Silver Jubilee celebrations this week to call for urgent national dialogue and reconciliation to prevent further instability. Meanwhile, the international community remains wary; while some local reports suggest a level of public relief regarding the previous administration’s economic failures, the “wave of coups” across West Africa has led to increased regional scrutiny and concerns over the fragility of democracy in the area.
Guinea-Bissau: Key Country Facts
The following data represents the established geographical and demographic profile of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau as of February 2026.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Republic of Guinea-Bissau |
| Capital | Bissau |
| Total Area | 36,125 sq km |
| Population | Approximately 2.1 million |
| Official Language | Portuguese |
| Local Languages | Guinea-Bissau Creole, Fula, French, English |
| Demographics | Approximately 60% of the population is under the age of 25 |
| Geography | Coastal plains with low-lying Atlantic coastline |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is currently in control of Guinea-Bissau?
As of February 2026, the country is under the control of a military junta that seized power on 26 November 2025. Major General Horta N’Tam is a leading figure within the transitional military authority.
Why did the coup occur?
Military officers cited a near-bankrupt state, a stagnant economy, and political instability surrounding the November 2025 elections as the primary reasons for the intervention.
Is the opposition participating in the new government?
While the junta has released prominent leaders like Domingos Simões Pereira and invited the PAIGC to join the government, major opposition figures have so far refused the offer, citing the illegitimacy of the military takeover.
What is the international response?
ECOWAS has sent missions to Bissau to mediate the crisis, and global bodies continue to monitor the situation, though there are concerns that international attention is divided by other global conflicts.