Guinea-Bissau is cautiously moving toward normalcy after weeks of political unrest, following the appointment of Ilidio Vieira Té as the country’s new Prime Minister. Té, who previously served as Finance Minister, will continue to hold that portfolio for the next 12 months as he leads the government through a delicate transition.
The capital, Bissau, woke up on Friday to a noticeably calmer atmosphere. The government has begun lifting restrictive measures imposed after a disputed presidential election and a subsequent coup that threw the nation into uncertainty.
Public and private transportation resumed operations, with taxis and motorcycle taxis seen moving through the city. Markets have reopened, and some vendors have returned to their stalls—although customer turnout remains low as residents continue to exercise caution.
Only government offices are fully operational for now. Many private institutions have reopened but are functioning with limited staff. Hospitals and health centers remain open, and gas stations are operating normally as people cautiously refill their vehicles.
Schools, however, remain closed, as education officials say they need more time to assess security risks before allowing students to return.
Guinea-Bissau plunged into deeper political chaos after the contested presidential election, which was quickly followed by a coup. Opposition leaders have questioned the legitimacy of the takeover, accusing ousted President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of creating conditions that led to the power struggle.
The new leadership faces steep challenges. The country—already one of the poorest in the world—has endured years of repeated coups, military interference, and fragile democratic institutions. Analysts warn that unless major reforms are implemented, the cycle of instability could continue.
Although the lifting of restrictions marks a positive shift, residents remain wary. Many hope that Prime Minister Té’s dual role in finance and governance will help restore stability and revive an economy battered by unrest.
For now, daily life in Bissau is slowly returning, but the political future of Guinea-Bissau remains uncertain.
