Benin coup attempt: government claims control amid military unrest

A group of soldiers in Benin announced on Sunday morning through the national television that they had removed President Patrice Talon from office, triggering immediate responses from government officials and international observers.

According to a close aide to the president, Patrice Talon remains safe, and the regular army has swiftly regained control of the situation. Cotonou, the country’s largest city, is reported to be fully secured, with no disruption to key state institutions.

military faction claims power, but authorities deny legitimacy

The self-proclaimed Military Committee for Rebuilding (CMR) declared on public television that it had dismissed President Talon, though the broadcast signal was later interrupted. Official sources dismissed the move as an attempt by a small group seeking visibility, emphasizing that the elected government remains firmly in charge.

“This is a fringe group trying to seize control through television. The legitimate army has taken charge, and the country is stable,” a government insider told international media.

international reactions and security concerns

The French Embassy in Benin issued a security alert on social media platform X, reporting gunfire near the presidential residence in Cotonou. It advised French citizens to stay indoors as a precaution.

Military sources confirmed that the situation was under control and that the rebels had failed to capture either the president’s residence or the presidential palace.

“It’s only a matter of time before normalcy is restored. Operations to neutralize the threat are progressing smoothly,” a senior military official stated.

political context and recent trends in west africa

Benin, known for its strong economic growth despite challenges from jihadist violence in the north, faces ongoing political tensions ahead of the presidential election scheduled for April. The country has experienced multiple coups over the decades, including recent instability in neighboring nations such as Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Guinea, and most recently, Guinea-Bissau.

President Patrice Talon, who has been in power since 2016, is set to complete his second term in 2026—the maximum allowed under the constitution. While praised for economic development, Talon has faced criticism from opponents who accuse him of adopting an authoritarian approach in a country once celebrated for its vibrant democracy.

Opposition parties have been largely excluded from the upcoming election, which pits the ruling party against a self-described ‘moderate’ challenger.

historical instability and democratic challenges

Benin, a West African nation long considered a model of democratic transition, now finds itself at a crossroads. The latest incident underscores broader security concerns across the region, where military takeovers have become increasingly frequent in recent years.