Benin turmoil: presidency denies coup amid military claims

Military officials in Bénin declared on Sunday, December 7, via public television that they had « removed from office » President Patrice Talon, though his inner circle swiftly countered that he remained secure and the armed forces were regaining control.

The West African nation, known for its robust economic growth yet plagued by escalating jihadist violence in its northern regions, was slated to hold a presidential election in April, marking the end of Talon’s second term—the maximum permitted by the constitution. The broader West Africa region has witnessed a surge in coups since 2020, including in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Guinea, and most recently, Guinea-Bissau, where political instability continues to unfold.

The group behind the announcement, calling itself the « Military Committee for Refoundation » (CMR), claimed control over Bénin’s state broadcaster, though transmissions were later disrupted. The statement alleged that Patrice Talon had been forcibly removed, prompting immediate rebuttals from presidential aides who dismissed the move as an isolated incident.

A military source later confirmed the situation was « under control », clarifying that the insurgents had neither seized the presidential residence nor the government headquarters. « Restoration efforts are underway, and normalcy will soon prevail. The cleanup operation is proceeding as planned », the source stated.

The French Embassy in Bénin issued an advisory on social media platform X, reporting « gunfire near the presidential residence in Cotonou » and urging French citizens to remain indoors « as a precaution ».

restricted access in Cotonou amid military presence

A journalist on the ground reported that access to the national television headquarters and presidential palace was blocked by troops. Key locations, including the Sofitel hotel—Cotonou’s premier five-star establishment—and areas housing international institutions were cordoned off. However, the airport and other parts of the city remained operational, with residents carrying on with their daily routines.

Benin’s political landscape and talon’s legacy

Bénin has a history marred by coups and attempted overthrows, though recent years have seen Patrice Talon steer the country toward economic progress. Critics, however, argue his administration has shifted toward authoritarianism, undermining the nation’s once-celebrated democratic traditions. With the opposition largely sidelined and the 2026 election approaching, the political climate remains tense.