Benin experienced a tense day on December 7, 2025, when a group of soldiers attempted to overthrow the government. The mutineers, presenting themselves as a “Refoundation Committee,” briefly occupied the national television station to announce the dismissal of President Patrice Talon and the dissolution of state institutions.
Loyal armed forces quickly intervened to regain control of strategic locations. Authorities confirmed the arrest of around ten soldiers involved. However, the alleged leader of the coup, identified by the mutineers during their statement, remains at large. Some sources also mentioned the presence of hostages among senior officers, but information remains limited.
The capital, Cotonou, returned to calm after several hours of confusion, although a significant military presence remains visible in certain sensitive districts.
The international community, notably ECOWAS and the African Union, reacted by strongly condemning this attempt to seize power by force, emphasizing the importance of respecting the constitutional order.
This event comes just months ahead of the presidential election scheduled for 2026 and highlights internal tensions within the army, as well as ongoing security challenges in the northern part of the country. Even though the coup was quickly neutralized, it exposes a political fragility that authorities will need to address in the coming months.
