A group of soldiers in Benin on Sunday announced on state television that they had removed President Patrice Talon from power, but the presidency quickly dismissed the claim, insisting the situation was under control and the president was safe.
Calling themselves the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR), the soldiers declared that they had met and agreed to “remove Mr Patrice Talon from office as president of the republic.” Their broadcast triggered confusion in the capital, Cotonou, and raised fears of unrest across the West African nation.
The French Embassy reported gunfire near Camp Guezo, close to Talon’s official residence, advising French nationals to stay indoors for their safety.
However, the president’s office told AFP that the attempt involved “a small group” with limited influence. “They only control the television. The regular army is regaining control. The city and the country are completely secure,” Talon’s entourage said.
Talon, who has led Benin since 2016, has faced criticism for tightening political space, though he remains credited with significant economic reforms. He is expected to leave office in 2026 after completing the maximum two terms allowed by the constitution.
Benin, once known for its relative stability, has a history of coups and attempted coups, and Sunday’s events come amid a surge of military takeovers in West Africa, including recent cases in Niger, Burkina Faso, Madagascar, and Guinea-Bissau.
With the main opposition party barred from the upcoming succession race, the ruling party is expected to compete against a “moderate” opposition as the country approaches a pivotal political transition.
