In a swift and decisive move, General Veríssimo Correia Seabra orchestrated a bloodless coup against President Kumba Ialá, who had been in power since 2000. The coup took place in Bissau, the capital of Guinea-Bissau, during a period marked by significant political instability and economic challenges. Kumba Ialá's government faced mounting criticisms for its inability to address corruption, governance issues, and economic decline. On September 14, 2003, military forces loyal to Seabra seized key government buildings and took control of state broadcasts to announce the coup.

In the hours leading up to the takeover, military units began to mobilize, effectively surrounding the presidential palace. Ialá was captured without any violence, which marked a notable aspect of this coup compared to previous military interventions in African nations. Seabra’s announcement conveyed a commitment to restoring public order and paving the way for democratic elections, illustrating a desire for a peaceful transition amidst widespread disapproval of Ialá's regime.

Following the coup, the international community watched cautiously, as Guinea-Bissau had been plagued by a history of coups and civil strife since its independence from Portugal in 1973. The military's promise of a transitional government aimed to stabilize the nation, and in December, a new interim administration was formed, which sought to bridge the gap between military control and democratic governance. The event reflected the ongoing challenges faced by many African nations in establishing and maintaining democratic institutions.