Benin’s government has confirmed that an attempted coup by a group of soldiers was successfully thwarted, insisting that President Patrice Talon remains safe and in control of the country.
The Interior Minister, Alassane Seidou, said on Sunday that the mutiny was quickly contained by loyal forces within the military.
“A small group of soldiers launched a mutiny with the aim of destabilising the country and its institutions,” Seidou said.
“The Beninese Armed Forces and their leadership took control of the situation and foiled the attempt.”
Earlier on Sunday, soldiers who identified themselves as the Military Committee for Refoundation appeared on state television, claiming they had removed President Talon from office.
“We have met and decided that Mr Patrice Talon is removed from office as president of the republic,” the group announced during the broadcast.
However, Talon’s entourage dismissed the claim, stating that the president was not in danger and that order was being restored across the country.
“This is a small group of people who only control the television,” a senior official in the president’s office said.
“The regular army is regaining control. The city and the country are completely secure.”
President Talon has been in power for about 10 years and is expected to step down in April, in line with constitutional provisions.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing to identify those involved in the failed coup attempt, while security remains heightened despite assurances that the situation is under control.
