Benin Coup Attempt: Soldiers Seize Power, President Talon Safe
Benin Coup Attempt: Soldiers Seize Power, President Talon Safe
Tensions rise in Benin as soldiers announce a takeover and gunfire is reported near the president’s residence; Talon is safe.
In Benin, a group of soldiers led by Lt-Col Pascal Tigri announced they had ousted President Patrice Talon and suspended the constitution, triggering a tense moment in the West African nation. An interior minister appeared on national television to say the attempted coup had been thwarted, and that order was being restored.
The soldiers broadcast their claim from an apparent takeover, while gunfire was reported near the president's residence in Cotonou, the seat of government and the country’s main city. Eyewitnesses reported hearing shots and said some journalists working for the state broadcaster were briefly held. The situation remained fluid as authorities urged calm and monitored the unfolding events.
The group behind the move identified itself as the Military Committee for Refoundation. The incident comes amid Benin’s long history of political volatility, with coups and attempted coups shaping the country’s political landscape. A presidential adviser later said Talon was safe and taking shelter at the French embassy, while a post from the French embassy indicated gunfire had been heard near the president’s residence.
Officials stressed that the state institutions were to be respected and that leadership would be restored through constitutional means. As the situation develops, residents are urged to stay indoors and rely on official channels for information. The coming hours will be crucial in determining whether the attempt will be contained or if it signals a broader political crisis for Benin.
Cover image source: Soldiers announce apparent military coup in Benin 🔗
