A Possible Coup in Eritrea

It appears a coup attempt may be unfolding in Asmara, Eritrea's capital. Dissident soldiers have reportedly taken over the Eritrean Ministry of Information facility and possibly the country’s central bank. Tanks and troops loyal to Eritrean President Isayas Afewerki are reportedly headed toward the ministry to retake the building, the site of the country's sole television station. Eritrean opposition radio outlet ERENA has reported that Afewerki, his wife and some army officers have been arrested.

The extent of Afewerki's control in Asmara is not clear, but if a coup is under way it is likely an internal military power grab triggered by the president's poor health. Afewerki, who has in the past traveled abroad for closely guarded medical treatment, may finally have died. Rather than let events spiral beyond their control, army officers who had been the foundation of the Eritrean regime may have launched a power grab to avoid a breakdown in order or to prevent a rival military or political faction from securing power.