In a dramatic turn of events, military forces in the West African nation of Benin have executed a coup d’état, forcibly removing President Patrice Talon from power. The stunning development was announced through a nationally televised broadcast where soldiers declared their takeover of government institutions.
The political upheaval unfolded with reports of gunfire near the presidential residence, according to an alert issued by the French embassy in Benin. The military junta has implemented sweeping measures including the immediate suspension of the nation’s constitution, closure of all land borders, and shutdown of the country’s airspace to consolidate their control.
Leadership of the new military regime has been assigned to Lieutenant-Colonel Tigri Pascal, who will head a transitional council overseeing governmental operations. This development occurs despite President Talon’s previously stated intention to complete his constitutional mandate. The 67-year-old leader had publicly acknowledged his plans to step down next year following the conclusion of his second term in office.
The coup represents a significant setback for democratic stability in West Africa, a region that has experienced several military takeovers in recent years. Benin had been regarded as one of the region’s more stable democracies, making this development particularly concerning for regional security and governance norms.
International observers are closely monitoring the situation as the military consolidates power and establishes its transitional framework. The suspension of constitutional governance raises serious questions about the future of democratic institutions in the nation.