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Calm Restored in Benin After Coup Attempt Quickly Foiled
Benin has faced tense moments over the weekend after a group of soldiers tried to remove President Patrice Talon from power. For many residents in Cotonou, hearing gunfire on Sunday morning was enough to remind them of recent political turmoil in the region. But by the evening, the president appeared on national television with a clear message. Life could go on as normal again.
How events unfolded
The drama began when soldiers who called themselves the Military Committee for Refoundation briefly took control of the state broadcaster. They announced that President Talon was no longer in office and that their own leader had taken over. The group, armed and wearing a mix of berets, accused the government of failing northern Benin, where jihadist violence has increased in recent years. They also complained about unfair treatment within the military.
However, the attempt did not last long. Loyal Beninese troops moved in to regain control of key sites and secured the state broadcaster. A number of soldiers suspected of involvement were detained. Nigerian support was provided after Benin’s authorities requested assistance, highlighting the strong regional focus on preventing political instability.
Regional and international support
West Africa has seen several power grabs in recent years, including in Niger and Burkina Faso. Regional leaders are determined not to see Benin join that list. ECOWAS expressed firm backing for the country’s constitutional order and announced that security support from several member states was being coordinated.
International voices also rallied behind Benin’s democracy. The African Union and the United Nations called for calm and condemned the attempt to seize power outside the rules of the constitution.
The president’s message: carry on as usual
Later that night, President Talon addressed the nation. He assured the country that the situation was secure and urged citizens to continue their daily routines without fear.
Residents who witnessed the morning unrest said they were relieved that the danger had passed quickly. Many expressed hope that the underlying issues raised by the mutineers would be handled through lawful channels in the future rather than by force.
A leader nearing the end of his tenure
President Talon has led Benin since 2016, and his time in office has been linked to strong economic development. Critics, however, argue that political freedoms have narrowed during his tenure. His second and final term ends in 2026, according to the constitution. The incident shows how leadership transitions can be moments of strain in the region.
What now for Benin
Normalcy has already returned to much of Cotonou. While some roads were blocked during the response operation, businesses reopened, and people resumed their usual routines once security forces confirmed they had control.
The government has promised to remain vigilant and prevent further unrest. For now, Benin’s democratic order remains intact, and hopes are high that calm will hold as the country moves toward its next political chapter.
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: Anadolu Ajansı
