Gunfire erupted in Cotonou, Benin’s economic hub, this morning as a group of soldiers declared on national television that they had removed President Patrice Talon from office. However, the Interior Minister swiftly announced that the attempted coup had been thwarted, ensuring government control remained intact.
The soldiers, identifying themselves as the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR), included eight personnel in varied berets carrying assault rifles. Their televised announcement claimed to have taken power due to escalating security concerns in northern Benin, neglect of fallen soldiers’ families, and alleged unfair promotions within the military ranks. They also cited erosion of fundamental freedoms under Talon’s administration.
What happened during the coup attempt?
Gunshots were reported in Cotonou, with soldiers blocking access to the presidential palace and the national television headquarters. Key areas, including the Sofitel hotel and international institutions, were cordoned off. Yet, despite the disruption, most of the city continued its daily activities undisturbed.
Interior Minister Alassane Seidou later confirmed the government’s swift response, stating: « The armed forces, true to their oath, remained republican. Their decisive action neutralized the threat, regaining full control. Cotonou and the country are secure. This was a small group exploiting television access, but the regular army has reclaimed authority. »
According to military sources cited by AFP, around a dozen soldiers involved in the coup attempt have been arrested.
Who is President Patrice Talon?
President Talon, scheduled to leave office in April 2026 after two terms, has faced criticism for an authoritarian shift despite economic growth in Benin. His administration has been accused of suppressing opposition voices, including the exclusion of the main opposition party from the upcoming elections. The vote will feature candidates from the ruling party and a self-described moderate opposition figure.
The country’s northern region, plagued by jihadist violence, remains a critical security challenge. Benin’s political landscape has seen repeated instability, with Talon previously surviving two coup attempts in 2020 and 2024.
How has the international community responded?
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) condemned the coup attempt, calling it an unconstitutional act that undermines Benin’s democratic will. The bloc pledged full support to the government and people of Benin.
The African Union (AU) also issued a strong condemnation, urging all involved to cease illegal actions immediately and return to their professional duties. AU Commission Chair Mahamoud Ali Youssouf emphasized the need for stability and adherence to constitutional order.
Why is Benin’s political stability under scrutiny?
Benin’s history is marked by multiple coups and political turbulence. Notable incidents include:
- Colonel Christophe Soglo’s 1963 coup against the civilian government.
- The 1965 military takeover led again by Soglo, who established a National Renovation Committee.
- The 1969 coup that ousted Émile Derlin Zinsou, installing a military directorate under Paul Emile de Souza.
Recent years have seen a resurgence of coup attempts, mirroring broader instability across West Africa. Since 2020, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau have all experienced military seizures of power, raising concerns about regional security.
