Pereira Leaves Prison for Treatment in Portugal

Guinea-Bissau opposition leader Domingos Simões Pereira left prison on humanitarian grounds to fly directly to Portugal for urgent medical treatment.

A military hospital evaluation in Bissau determined that domestic facilities could not treat the head of the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC).

Junta authorities had detained Pereira following the November 26 military coup that ousted President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, charging him with financing an October 2025 overthrow attempt, involvement in a 2023 coup plot, and financial crimes.

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Upon arriving at Lisbon airport, Pereira informed supporters and journalists that he intends to return home promptly to continue his political activities.

His legal team and party colleagues continue to denounce the allegations as arbitrary, maintaining that military officials fabricated the charges to bar him from contesting the December 6 presidential election.

Pereira (News Central TV) — Pereira leaves prison for treatment in Portugal. Credit: Reuters

The dispute highlights the persistent governance challenges in the West African state, which has experienced five military coups and frequent political volatility since gaining independence in 1974.

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Abisoye Adeyiga

Abisoye Adedoyin Adeyiga holds a PhD in Languages and Media Studies and a Master’s in Education (English Language). Trained in digital marketing and investigative journalism, she is passionate about new media’s transformative power. She enjoys reading, traveling, and meaningful conversations.