The situation unfolded rapidly in Cotonou this Sunday morning as a small group of soldiers declared the removal of President Patrice Talon from power. According to the Bénin government, authorities successfully “foiled” the attempted coup shortly after the announcement aired on national television.

Around eight soldiers, identifying themselves as the “Military Committee for Rebuilding” (CMR), appeared on state TV in camouflage uniforms, accusing the current administration of mismanagement, poor military support, and a drift toward authoritarianism. Their stated motives included:

• Security failures in northern Bénin, where jihadist violence has escalated;
• Neglect of fallen soldiers and their families;
• Unfair promotions that sidelined deserving officers;
• Alleged erosion of fundamental freedoms.

In response, Bénin’s military leadership swiftly reaffirmed its loyalty to the republic. Interior Minister Alassane Seidou confirmed that the armed forces remained “republican” and had regained control of key areas, including the presidential palace. Gunfire was reported in parts of Cotonou, but witnesses noted life in the city continued largely as usual.

Military response and international condemnation

While the CMR claimed control of national television and restricted access to government buildings and upscale hotels such as the Sofitel Cotonou, a military source told AFP that the situation was already “under control” and that a “cleanup operation” was underway to restore full order.

Regional bodies reacted immediately:

• ECOWAS condemned the “unconstitutional act” and pledged full support for the Bénin government and people;
• African Union (AU) called for the immediate return of all military personnel to their barracks and an end to illegal actions.

Talon’s presidency and democratic concerns

Patrice Talon, who has led Bénin since 2016 and is constitutionally barred from seeking a third term in 2026, is credited with economic growth but increasingly criticized for tightening political freedoms. Opposition parties have been sidelined, and the upcoming presidential election is expected to feature only regime-backed candidates.

The attempted coup follows a wave of military takeovers across West Africa—Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Guinea, and most recently Guinea-Bissau—raising concerns about regional stability and democratic backsliding.