The Guinea-Bissau Military High Court has sentenced 14 soldiers to prison terms ranging from 12 to 29 years for their role in the failed coup attempt of February 1, 2022.
The ruling, delivered on Wednesday, marks a significant step in addressing the attempted overthrow of President Umaro Sissoco Embaló.
According to local reports, three of the convicted soldiers received the maximum sentence of 29 years, eight were sentenced to 24 years, and three were given 12-year terms. In addition to their prison sentences, all 14 soldiers have been dismissed from the Bissau-Guinean Armed Forces.
The trial covered only 24 of the 50 individuals initially implicated in the coup plot. The attack, aimed at seizing control of the presidency and key institutions, was thwarted by forces loyal to the government and international intervention.
While the coup attempt exposed deep political divisions within Guinea-Bissau, it did not destabilize Embaló’s administration.
Authorities continue investigations into the remaining suspects, as the government seeks to reinforce stability and prevent future attempts to undermine the country’s democratic institutions.
