Benin’s presidency says President Patrice Talon remains safe and the government is still in control, despite a dramatic coup announcement earlier on Sunday.
What Happened
Diaspora Digital Media reported that a group of soldiers identifying themselves as the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR) appeared on state television, claiming they had removed President Talon from office and taken over government operations.
The broadcast was later cut off.
Presidency Responds
A senior official close to Talon told AFP that the president is “completely safe” and insisted the coup plotters only managed to seize the TV station, not any major government assets.
“The regular army is regaining control… The city and the country are secure,” the source said, adding that “normalcy” would soon return.
A military source also confirmed that the plotters failed to take Talon’s residence or the presidential offices.
Gunfire Reported
The French Embassy reported gunfire at Camp Guezo, near the president’s official residence, and advised citizens to stay indoors.
Rising Trend of Coups in West Africa
Benin’s attempted takeover adds to a growing list of West African nations hit by coups in recent years, including:
Niger
Burkina Faso
Mali
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau (most recently)
Talon Nearing End of Tenure
President Talon, in power since 2016, is expected to conclude his second and final term in April 2026.
Though credited with economic growth, he faces criticism for authoritarian tendencies and opposition clampdowns ahead of the 2026 elections.