Former Guinea-Bissau president Embaló declares intention to return home voluntarily

Umaro Sissoco Embaló, former head of state of Guinea-Bissau, used his social-media accounts to announce a voluntary return to the country, emphasizing the need for harmony, tolerance and mutual respect. Deposed after a coup led by his former security chief, General Horta Inta-a, Embaló has been residing in Morocco. He framed his comeback as a gesture of confidence in the nation’s future, urging citizens to avoid actions that might spark tension.

The coup leaders established a National Transition Council that now holds parliamentary powers, installed Ilídio Vieira Té as prime minister and finance minister, and approved a constitution strengthening the presidency. The council has also set a timetable for legislative and presidential elections, which the opposition believes are being arranged to enable Embaló’s return to power.