Failed Coup Attempt in Benin: Military Group Announces President Talon's Removal as Government Claims Control

Benin's political landscape has historically experienced numerous coups and coup attempts throughout its history.

On Sunday, military forces in Benin declared they had deposed President Patrice Talon, though his administration later stated he remained safe while the army worked to restore control.

A group identifying themselves as the "Military Committee for Refoundation" (CMR) announced via state television that they had convened and determined "Mr Patrice Talon is removed from office as president of the republic."

This development follows recent military takeovers in Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau within the past two months. Benin shares northern borders with Niger and Burkina Faso, countries that have similarly experienced military coups.

The French Embassy reported on X platform that "gunfire was reported at Camp Guezo" located near the president's official residence in the economic capital, advising French nationals to remain indoors for safety.

However, President Talon's representatives countered the coup claims, telling AFP: "This is a small group of people who only control the television. The regular army is regaining control. The city and the country are completely secure."

President Talon, who has governed the West African nation for a decade and is scheduled to leave office in April, appears to remain in power despite the attempted coup.

Benin has experienced multiple coups and attempted coups throughout its political history.

Talon, who assumed power in 2016, is approaching the conclusion of his second term in 2026, which represents the constitutional limit.

The primary opposition party has been excluded from the presidential succession, leaving the ruling party to compete against what has been termed a "moderate" opposition.

The 67-year-old former businessman, often called the "cotton king" of Cotonou, has received praise for fostering economic development in Benin but faces regular criticism from opponents who accuse him of authoritarian governance.

Interior Minister Alassane Seidou later confirmed in a Facebook video that the coup attempt had been thwarted, stating: "In the early morning of Sunday, December 7, 2025, a small group of soldiers launched a mutiny with the aim of destabilising the state and its institutions. Faced with this situation, the Beninese Armed Forces and their leadership, true to their oath, remained committed to the republic."