Benin’s Government Claims to Have Foiled Coup Attempt
The government of Benin announced on Sunday that its armed forces have thwarted an attempted coup following a declaration by a group of soldiers claiming to have taken control of the government. The incident raises alarms in a country poised for significant political transitions ahead of presidential elections in April.
Why It Matters
This coup attempt comes against the backdrop of rising political instability in West Africa, where military takeovers have become increasingly common in recent years. As Benin approaches a pivotal election, the potential for disruption could threaten the region’s fragile democratic institutions and highlight the vulnerabilities in governance.
Key Developments
- The Interior Minister reported that a small faction of soldiers initiated a mutiny designed to destabilize the state.
- Fifteen individuals have been detained in connection with the coup attempt as of Sunday afternoon.
- A segment of soldiers had announced on state television the dissolution of the government, stating that President Patrice Talon was removed from power.
- The military committee, led by Lieutenant Colonel Tigri Pascal, pledged a commitment to national stability while suspending the constitution and closing borders.
- Conflicting reports indicated that coup plotters only had control of state media but were met with a swift response from loyalist forces.
- Gunfire was reported in Cotonou, notably near the presidential residence, prompting advisory alerts from both the French and U.S. embassies, urging citizens to stay clear of the area.
Full Report
Coup Announcement
On Sunday, a group of at least eight soldiers appeared on state television, claiming to have established a "military committee for refoundation." They declared the dissolution of Benin’s national institutions and announced the suspension of the constitution, invoking the need for a renewal based on principles of fraternity, justice, and labor.
Interior Minister Alassane Seidou stated in a Facebook video that loyal forces remained dedicated to defending the republic amid the chaos. He provided reassurance that the armed forces acted in accordance with their oath to uphold the government.
Official Responses
In the wake of the coup attempt, government officials confirmed that 14 individuals had been arrested. While state television’s broadcast was briefly interrupted, normal transmission has since resumed. Foreign Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari noted the limited control exercised by the coup plotters, emphasizing that their power was primarily restricted to the state-run media.
Unrest in Cotonou
Residents in the capital city, Cotonou, reported hearing gunfire in multiple neighborhoods, raising concerns about the ongoing security situation. The French embassy warned its citizens to remain indoors, while the U.S. embassy advised monitoring local media and avoiding areas of unrest.
Context & Previous Events
Benin is preparing for presidential elections scheduled for April 2024, with President Patrice Talon indicating his intention to step down after serving since 2016. The ruling coalition has nominated Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni as its candidate. Recent changes to the constitution have extended presidential terms from five to seven years while maintaining a limit of two consecutive terms. In a related political climate, two associates of Talon were sentenced to 20 years in prison last month due to an alleged coup conspiracy set for 2024. Neighboring countries have experienced military coups in recent years, notably Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea, and most recently, Guinea-Bissau.
