On Saturday, November 29, 2025, Guinea-Bissau's transitional president, Horta Inta-A, unveiled a new cabinet with 23 ministries and five state secretariats. The overhaul follows a dramatic military intervention earlier this week that reshaped the country's political scene.
Elections held on November 23 for both the presidency and parliament were meant to chart a clear path forward, with incumbent Umaro Sissoco Embalo seeking re-election. However, when initial results were expected on November 27, the military stepped in on November 26, citing threats to national stability, and dismissed Embalo.
Inta-A, a senior military officer, was sworn in as transitional president on November 27 for a one-year term. The next day, he appointed Tomas Djassi as chief of general staff of the armed forces and tapped Ilidio Vieira Te as prime minister and minister of finance.
The new cabinet blends political insiders and fresh faces. Key figures include Joao Bernardo Vieira as minister of foreign affairs, international cooperation and communities; Mamasaliu Embalo as minister of interior and public order; and Carlos Pinto Pereira, a former foreign minister, as minister of justice and human rights. Notably, all 28 appointees are linked to the electoral camp of deposed President Embalo, with four returning from the previous government.
As Guinea-Bissau enters this transitional phase, the formation of a government tied closely to the last administration raises questions about continuity and change. With election results still pending and regional partners watching closely, these appointments set the stage for a high-stakes year ahead.
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Guinea-Bissau's transitional president appoints new cabinet members
cgtn.com
