Benin military coup attempt fails with president talon safe

A group of soldiers claiming to represent the « Military Committee for Refoundation » (CMR) announced on Sunday morning, December 7, via state television that they had « removed President Patrice Talon from office ». However, the government swiftly refuted these claims, assuring the public that the president was safe and the military had re-established control over the situation.

Government denies coup claims and reassures public safety

Within hours of the announcement, a source close to President Talon dismissed the coup attempt as a « fringe group’s desperate act» that had temporarily seized control of the television broadcast. « The regular army has retaken control. Cotonou and the entire country remain fully secure, » the source stated firmly. The swift response from the armed forces quelled initial concerns, ensuring that key institutions, including the presidential residence, remained under state protection.

The French Embassy in Cotonou also issued an alert on social media, reporting « gunfire near the presidential residence » and advising French nationals to remain indoors as a precaution. The embassy’s message underscored the gravity of the situation but was quickly followed by updates confirming the restoration of order.

Military sources confirm swift restoration of order

A military spokesperson confirmed that the situation was « under control » and that the mutineers had failed to seize critical locations, including « the presidential residence or the Republic’s presidency ». « The cleanup operation is progressing smoothly. It’s only a matter of time before full stability is restored, » the spokesperson added. Access to the national television headquarters and the presidential palace was initially restricted, but normalcy quickly resumed in most parts of the capital.

Key locations temporarily restricted but stability returns

Journalists on the ground reported that while the national television station and the Sofitel hotel in Cotonou—along with areas housing international institutions—were temporarily cordoned off, the airport and other parts of the city operated without disruption. The population continued daily activities as the military swiftly dismantled the coup attempt.

Bénin’s political landscape and President Talon’s tenure

Bénin has a history marked by instability, with multiple coups and attempted overthrows in past decades. President Patrice Talon, in office since 2016, is set to conclude his second and final term in 2026, as mandated by the Constitution. While his administration has been credited with driving economic growth in the country, critics argue that his leadership has taken an « authoritarian turn », undermining the nation’s once-celebrated democratic traditions. The upcoming presidential election, scheduled for April, will see the ruling party face off against a « moderate opposition candidate », with the main opposition party notably excluded from the race.

The failed coup attempt has once again highlighted the fragility of political stability in West Africa, a region that has witnessed a surge in military takeovers in recent years, including neighboring countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau.