The military junta in Guinea-Bissau says it will not allow the return of deposed former President Umaro Sissoco Embaló to the country.
There has been speculation that Embaló who lost power in November last year after a military coup would return to Guinea-Bissau.
The Military High Command responsible for restoring national security and public order barred Embaló from returning, citing a lack of the security conditions to guarantee his safety upon return.
In a statement issued in Bissau on Wednesday, the junta said it had assessed the national situation and security conditions before concluding that the necessary guarantees for the former president’s return were not in place.
“This decision is based exclusively on reasons of national security, the preservation of public order and the prevention of situations likely to undermine stability,” the statement, No. 07/ACM/2026, said.
The military authorities said political demonstrations and gatherings remained banned as part of the ongoing political transition. They warned that any breach of the ban would be punished in accordance with the law.
The Military High Command also called on the population and the international community to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities in order to preserve peace and public order.
The decision comes amid a political transition in Guinea-Bissau, as the military authorities maintain restrictions on political activities and public gatherings.
TE/Sf/lb/as/APA