Coup Attempt in Benin Reported Foiled Amidst Gunfire
A coup attempt in Benin has reportedly been thwarted, according to the country’s interior minister. The announcement comes as sporadic gunfire echoed in Cotonou, the administrative capital, raising concerns about political stability in the West African nation.
Why It Matters
This incident underscores the fragile state of democracy in Benin, a country that has seen multiple coups since gaining independence in 1960. The failure of this coup attempt highlights the ongoing struggle between military influence and civilian governance in West Africa, especially as the region has witnessed an alarming increase in military takeovers in recent years.
Key Developments
- Interior Minister Alassane Seidou confirmed that a group of soldiers had attempted a mutiny early on Sunday.
- The Beninese Armed Forces arrested 13 soldiers implicated in the coup, although the fate of the alleged coup leader, Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri, remains unclear.
- Gunfire was reported around various locations in Cotonou, although the situation has reportedly been relatively calm since the coup was announced.
- The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) condemned the coup attempt, pledging support for the government.
- President Patrice Talon, who has been in power since 2016, has not been seen, and reports indicate that state media was temporarily disrupted but has since resumed broadcasting.
Full Report
In a video posted on Facebook, Minister Seidou stated that the coup was aimed at destabilizing the country’s institutions but was ultimately unsuccessful. This morning, a faction of soldiers appeared on state television declaring a government dissolution, a move they attributed to the so-called Military Committee for Refoundation. This group also declared Lt. Col. Tigri as its president, further complicating the political landscape.
Despite reports of gunfire and military patrols in Cotonou, the city has mostly remained tranquil following the coup attempt. Local sources indicate that 13 soldiers have been detained, although there is uncertainty surrounding Lt. Col. Tigri’s status.
ECOWAS released a statement condemning the coup as unconstitutional, emphasizing its commitment to supporting the government and protecting the integrity of Benin’s constitution. Talon, who is scheduled to step down in April 2026 following upcoming elections, faces increasing political challenges, including his party’s favored candidate Romuald Wadagni and a rejected opposition candidate.
In related developments, two of Talon’s associates were sentenced earlier this year for a separate coup plot, and legislative changes last month extended the presidential term from five to seven years, while maintaining a two-term limit.
Context & Previous Events
Since gaining independence from France in 1960, Benin has experienced multiple coups, particularly in the years shortly following independence. Political stability has largely been a hallmark of the country since 1991, following the end of a two-decade rule by Marxist-Leninist leader Mathieu Kérékou. Recent months have seen a rise in military coups in West Africa, including a military takeover in Guinea-Bissau related to contested election results.
