Benin's Interior Minister Declares Coup Attempt "Foiled"; Loyal Army Regains Control

The government of Benin announced today, Sunday, that a limited military coup attempt was foiled after a group of soldiers seized the national television station and announced the "removal" of President Patrice Talon and the dissolution of state institutions.

Details of the Attempt and Government Response:

• Coup Announcement: A group of military personnel, calling themselves the "Military Committee for Refoundation," appeared on state TV early Sunday, announcing Talon's dismissal and appointing Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri as head of the committee.

• Attempt Foiled: Benin's Interior Minister, Alassane Seidou, confirmed that the country's armed forces had thwarted the coup attempt.

• Control Reasserted: Foreign Minister Olushogon Adjadi Bakare told Reuters that "the situation is under control," describing it as a "small group of the army" who only controlled the state television, and that the regular army and National Guard remain loyal.

• President's Safety: Sources close to President Talon confirmed to AFP that he was safe, the coup failed to seize the presidential residence, and a "cleanup operation" was underway.

Background of Events:

• Regional Context: This attempt comes just days after a successful coup in Guinea-Bissau, marking the latest in a series of disruptions across West Africa.

• Domestic Situation: Talon has been in power since 2016 and is due to complete his second, and final, term next year. Despite economic development praised during his tenure, Talon is often accused by opponents of adopting an authoritarian approach in a country previously known for its democratic dynamism.