Failed coup attempt in Bénin: what is happening in Cotonou

A wave of uncertainty hit Cotonou, the economic hub of Bénin, this Sunday morning following an attempted military takeover. While soldiers appeared on national television claiming to have ousted President Patrice Talon, the government quickly moved to reassure the public that the situation had been neutralized. Here is a breakdown of the events unfolding in the West African nation.

The morning of the uprising

Early on Sunday, eight armed soldiers wearing various berets identified themselves as the “Military Committee for Refoundation” (CMR) during a broadcast on Bénin‘s state television. They announced the removal of President Patrice Talon from power.

The group, led by a lieutenant-colonel named as the new head of the CMR, cited several reasons for their actions. These included the worsening security crisis in northern Bénin, the perceived abandonment of wounded soldiers and their families, and a lack of meritocracy in military promotions. They also accused the administration of eroding fundamental freedoms and raised several social grievances.

Witnesses reported hearing gunfire in Cotonou, with troops blocking access to the presidential palace and the national broadcaster. Strategic locations, including the Sofitel hotel and districts housing international organizations, were cordoned off. Despite the tension in these specific areas, much of the city remained relatively calm as residents continued their daily routines.

Government response and arrests

The Bénin government was quick to react. Alassane Seidou, the Minister of the Interior, appeared on television to declare that the Bénin armed forces remained loyal to the republic. He stated that the military’s response successfully thwarted the maneuver, describing the mutineers as a small group whose control was limited to the television station.

Reports indicate that approximately twelve individuals, including the primary orchestrators of the attempt, have been detained. Security forces are said to be conducting “cleanup” operations to ensure the entire country is fully secured.

The leadership of Patrice Talon

President Patrice Talon, who is currently reported to be safe, is nearing the end of his second term. He is expected to step down in April 2026, as the Bénin Constitution limits presidents to two mandates. While Talon has been praised for the country’s robust economic growth, he has also faced criticism for what some describe as an authoritarian shift in a nation once considered a model of democracy in Afrique.

Global condemnation

The international community has reacted swiftly to the events in Bénin. The Economic Community of West African States (CEDEAO) issued a strong condemnation of the unconstitutional move, pledging support for the legitimate government. Similarly, the African Union (UA) denounced the attempt and called on the military to return to their barracks immediately. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the UA Commission, urged all involved to cease illegal activities and uphold their professional duties.

A history of political instability

This event is not the first time Bénin has faced such turmoil. The nation’s political history includes successful coups in 1963, 1965, and 1969, led by figures like Christophe Soglo and Paul Emile de Souza. More recently, Patrice Talon‘s presidency has seen other reported coup attempts in 2020 and September 2024. This latest incident follows a broader trend of military interventions in West Afrique, including recent events in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Guinée, and Guinée-Bissau.