Vibrant Resurgence: Guinea-Bissau Capital Restores Normalcy After Disruption

Guinea-Bissau's capital returned to normal life Friday as the military eased security restrictions following this week's coup. General Horta Nhante took control of the country and appointed a transitional government meant to last one year after the army suspended presidential and parliamentary elections held in November.

The military announced Wednesday it was taking power from President Omar Sissoco Embalo and suspending the electoral process. The November 23 elections had finished, but results were never announced. Army leaders named General Horta Nhante, the former ground forces chief of staff, to head the military command and manage the political transition.

On Friday, Nhante issued a decree appointing former finance minister Elidio Viera Te as prime minister and finance minister. This marks the first concrete step toward forming a new government structure.

Traffic resumed on the main road connecting the port to the presidential palace in Bissau, and pedestrians were walking freely near government buildings. Journalists reported a significant reduction in military presence and security checkpoints throughout the capital.

Shops, restaurants, and small businesses reopened their doors after being shuttered during the initial coup period. The military lifted the overnight curfew imposed Wednesday and reopened all border crossings that had been closed since the takeover began.

Schools, markets, and private institutions were ordered to resume operations immediately. The quick return to normalcy suggests the military is trying to minimize disruption while consolidating control.

Former president Embalo left for Senegal aboard a military aircraft chartered by the Senegalese government. His departure removes a potential source of political tension as the new military leadership establishes its authority.

Guinea-Bissau has experienced multiple coups since independence in 1974, making political instability a recurring challenge. The West African nation's economy relies heavily on cashew exports and has struggled with poverty and weak institutions. International observers will likely watch closely to see whether the promised one-year transition actually leads to civilian rule.