Benin’s Military Ousts President Talon in Apparent Coup
In a sudden turn of events, soldiers in Benin have announced on national television that they have deposed President Patrice Talon, marking a significant political upheaval in the West African nation. This development raises concerns about the stability of leadership in a region already grappling with multiple coups in recent years.
Why It Matters
This coup unfolds amid a troubling pattern of military takeovers in West Africa, putting additional strain on the delicate political landscape of the region. The actions taken by the military could have far-reaching implications for governance, security, and international relations, particularly for Benin, which has historically been viewed as a beacon of democracy in the area.
Key Developments
- The military announced the suspension of the constitution along with closed land borders and airspace.
- Lieutenant-Colonel Tigri Pascal has been designated as the head of a military transition council.
- French officials reported gunfire near the president’s residence in the capital, Cotonou.
- Talon, 67, was scheduled to step down next year after his second term, with elections set for April.
- The French Embassy has advised its citizens to remain indoors for their safety.
Full Report
On national television, Benin’s military declared that they have removed President Patrice Talon from power, citing dissatisfaction with his governance. The coup is characterized by the suspension of the constitution and the closure of all borders and airspace. The military’s leadership during this transitional phase will fall to Lieutenant-Colonel Tigri Pascal.
Reports from the French embassy have confirmed the presence of gunfire near the presidential residence, heightening fears about safety in the capital city. The embassy has consequently urged citizens in Benin to stay indoors to ensure their protection.
President Talon had been in office since 2016 after winning elections and had pledged not to seek a third term. He was expected to transition power to a chosen successor next year. This coup marks a stark departure from the democratic norms that the West African nation had maintained, particularly as Talon was nearing the end of his presidency.
The military’s actions have sparked widespread alarm, especially given the recent overthrow of President Umaro Sissoco Embaló in neighboring Guinea-Bissau. This trend of military coups signals escalating instability in West Africa, where nations like Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, and Niger have also experienced significant political upheaval.
Context & Previous Events
Patrice Talon, known in business circles as the “king of cotton,” took office following elections in 2016. He had announced his intention to step down after two terms, with elections scheduled for April 2024. This coup occurs just over a week after the presidential coup in Guinea-Bissau, contributing to heightened fears of insecurity across the West African region.
