Major General Horta Na N’taha has been declared the new head of state of Guinea-Bissau, following a dramatic takeover announced by the Armed Forces High Command in the capital, Bissau, on Wednesday.

The military action has plunged the country into political uncertainty. In its statement, the Armed Forces announced the suspension of the constitution, the halt of all state institution activities, and the closure of land, air, and sea borders. Additionally, a curfew from 9 pm to 6 am has been imposed, significantly restricting movement across the country.

This upheaval comes just as Guinea-Bissau was poised to announce the results of its recent presidential and legislative elections, originally scheduled for today. Observers and citizens alike are now left waiting, as both domestic and international actors call for calm and dialogue in the face of this sudden military intervention.