A sudden wave of gunfire erupted in Cotonou, the economic capital of Benin, this Sunday morning, followed by an extraordinary broadcast on national television. A group of soldiers, identifying themselves as the «Military Committee for Refoundation» (CMR), announced the immediate removal of President Patrice Talon from office. However, the government swiftly countered the claims, asserting that the «maneuver has been thwarted».
what happened in Benin?
The unfolding events began with eight soldiers, donning varied beret colors and armed with assault rifles, appearing on national television under the banner of the CMR. They declared President Patrice Talon deposed and installed a lieutenant-colonel as their «president of the CMR». Their justification centered on three major grievances: the «deteriorating security situation in northern Benin», the «neglect of fallen soldiers and their families», and «unfair promotions that favor the undeserving».
The mutineers also condemned what they called a «disguised erosion of fundamental freedoms» under the current administration and outlined broader social demands. Gunshots rang out across Cotonou, with soldiers blocking access to the presidential palace and the national television headquarters. Key areas, including the Sofitel hotel and international institution zones, were cordoned off. Despite the turmoil, life in most of the city continued as usual.
In a decisive response, Interior Minister Alassane Seidou declared on television that the Beninese armed forces, «remained loyal to their oath and republican values». He confirmed that the situation was now under control, dismissing the coup attempt as the work of a «tiny group that briefly hijacked state media». According to official sources, a dozen soldiers, including the ringleaders, have been arrested.
who is president patrice talon?
President Patrice Talon, whose second term is set to conclude in April 2026, has presided over Benin’s robust economic growth amidst escalating jihadist violence in the north. While he is credited with economic advancements, critics accuse him of adopting an authoritarian stance, undermining the country’s once-vibrant democratic traditions.
The upcoming presidential election, restricted by constitutional term limits, excludes the main opposition party, pitting the ruling party against a self-proclaimed «moderate» challenger. Officials confirm that the president remains safe and that the mutineers failed to seize key state assets or his residence. Authorities describe the situation as stabilizing, with operations to restore full order underway.
international reactions to the coup attempt
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) condemned the «flagrant unconstitutional act» as a blatant subversion of the Beninese people’s will. In a statement, ECOWAS reaffirmed its unwavering support for the government and people of Benin, pledging to take all necessary measures to uphold democratic norms.
The African Union (AU) also issued a strong condemnation, labeling the coup attempt an «unambiguous and firm rejection of unconstitutional changes». AU Commission Chair Mahamoud Ali Youssouf urged all involved to «immediately cease illegal actions» and return to their professional duties without delay.
historical context: Benin’s turbulent political past
The political landscape of Benin has long been marred by instability. Notable coups include the 1963 overthrow by Colonel Christophe Soglo, followed by further military interventions in 1965 and 1969. More recently, Benin has faced two failed coup attempts under President Talon’s tenure—in 2020 and September 2024.
This incident reflects a broader trend of political turbulence across West Africa, with neighboring nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau experiencing similar upheavals since 2020.