Benin coup fails: Army thwarts rebellion and regains control
The government of Benin announced that the armed forces had successfully thwarted a military coup attempt, in a swift and decisive move that restored stability to the country after hours of tension. This announcement came after a group of mutinous soldiers appeared on state television, declaring the removal of President Patrice Talon, in a scene reminiscent of the recent series of coups in West Africa.
Details of the crucial hours in Cotonou
Benin's Interior Minister affirmed that the military acted with utmost professionalism and speed in dealing with the rebellion, preventing the country from descending into chaos. The presidency clarified that pro-government forces regained full control of the strategic locations the rebels had attempted to seize, including the radio and television headquarters.
The economic capital, Cotonou, witnessed a heavy military deployment on main streets and around government institutions to ensure security. Despite these rapid developments, field reports indicated that daily life for citizens did not come to a standstill, with markets remaining open and traffic flowing almost normally, reflecting public confidence in the state's ability to contain the crisis.
Political background and turbulent regional context
President Patrice Talon, a former businessman, has ruled Benin since 2016 and was re-elected in 2021. His current term is constitutionally scheduled to end after the presidential elections planned for April 2026. This coup attempt comes at a sensitive time for the Sahel and West Africa region, which has witnessed a wave of military coups in neighboring countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, raising concerns within the international community about the contagion of political instability.
The importance of regional stability in Benin
Benin, long considered a model of relatively stable democracy in the region, is a vital link and an important trade corridor for landlocked countries in the Sahel. Maintaining its stability is a security and economic imperative, not only for Benin itself but for the entire region, which faces growing security challenges from the expansion of armed groups from the north. Foiling this attempt sends a powerful message about the cohesion of Benin's military establishment and its ability to protect the constitutional order in the face of the turmoil plaguing the region.
