Benin was thrown into confusion on Sunday after a group of soldiers claimed to have removed President Patrice Talon from power—a dramatic announcement that briefly aired on state television before the signal was abruptly cut. By mid-morning, senior officials insisted the president was safe and the military had begun restoring order across Cotonou, averting what would have been West Africa’s latest destabilising takeover.
Army Pushes Back as Coup Plotters Seize State TV
The group, calling itself the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR), appeared on national television at dawn, declaring that 67-year-old Talon—long known as the “cotton king of Cotonou”—had been ousted. But moments after the broadcast went off air, a source close to the president dismissed the declaration, describing the incident as the work of a “small group” whose reach extended only as far as the TV studio.
Security sources later confirmed that loyalist forces had maintained control of the presidential residence and offices, signalling the coup attempt was faltering. “The city and the country are completely secure… cleanup is progressing well,” an official told AFP.
Roadblocks and Gunfire Reported, but Daily Life Continues
As loyalist troops pushed back, access to state television, the presidential compound, the Sofitel hotel, and several government districts was restricted. Gunfire was also reported near Camp Guezo, prompting the French Embassy to urge its nationals to remain indoors.
Even so, key installations—including the airport—remained untouched. Much of Cotonou carried on with business as usual, reflecting a population accustomed to moments of political tension in a country with a long history of coups dating back to independence in 1960.
Talon Nears End of Term Amid Rising Tensions
Talon, who has served since 2016, is set to complete his second and final term in 2026. His presidency has been marked by strong economic growth, but also by rising jihadist threats spilling over from neighbouring Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali—countries that have all experienced coups in recent years.
Domestically, Talon has faced criticism for eroding democratic space. With the main opposition party excluded from the upcoming presidential race, the succession battle is expected to pit the ruling camp against a moderate opposition faction. Critics argue this environment has fuelled political strain, making the country more vulnerable to power grabs.
