Guinea-Bissau: Military authorities refuse the return of Umaro Sissoco Embaló

On October 1, 2026, the Guinea-Bissau presidency announced that Umaro Sissoco Embaló's planned return on October 4th is denied due to security concerns. The military high command, in power since the November 2025 coup, states that conditions are not met to ensure his safe return, citing national stability. Embaló, ousted in November 2025, had declared his intention to run in the December 2026 presidential election, but his entry is blocked to maintain public order. This decision, made amid ongoing military transition and restrictions, risks fueling accusations of political manipulation.