General Horta N'Tam, the current strongman of Guinea-Bissau, has taken another step in consolidating his authority. By a decree he himself signed this Thursday, January 29, he was promoted to the rank of major general , thus becoming the highest-ranking officer in the country.

A promotion validated by the army

Previously a brigadier general, this officer in his sixties will now wear four stars on his uniform. According to the decree, this promotion:

1. It stems from a proposal by the transitional government.
2. Received prior approval from the country's military leaders.

Background: A coup with unclear outlines

General N'Tam seized control of the country on November 26th , overthrowing President Umaro Sissoco Embaló. This coup took place in a climate of total confusion.

1. Interrupted elections: The coup took place three days after the presidential and legislative elections of November 23, the results of which were never made public.
2. Cross accusations: While the military claims to have acted to prevent a civil war, some accuse the ousted president of having orchestrated the crisis himself in the face of unfavorable election results.

Heading towards December 2026

Initially appointed for a one-year transition period, General N'Tam's schedule has been adjusted. The next elections (presidential and legislative) are now set for December 6, 2026 .

Meanwhile, the political landscape remains fragmented:

1. Former president Umaro Sissoco Embaló has left the country.
2. His main rival, Fernando Dias de Costa , currently lives in exile under diplomatic protection at the Nigerian embassy.