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Khaled Saifulla 7 Dec 2025 , 6:47 PM Print Edition
INTERNATIONAL DESK: A group of rebel soldiers in the West African nation of Benin claimed to have overthrown President Patrice Talon. They announced this after taking control of the state television broadcaster. However, the government immediately rejected the claim. It assured that the President is completely safe and the army is restoring control.
Rebels Announce Coup on State TV
On Sunday morning (December 7), a group of soldiers appeared on state television. They dramatically declared the removal of the President. They identified themselves as the “Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR).” Lieutenant Colonel Tigri Pascal leads the rebel group.
The rebels announced on air: “We have collectively decided that Patrice Talon is no longer the President of the country. All state power is now in our hands.”
Government Counter-Claim and Escalation
Shortly after the rebel broadcast, the Benin Presidential Office released a statement. It confirmed that President Patrice Talon was safe. It also stated that the military was already restoring control over the situation.
Foreign Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari confirmed to Reuters that a coup attempt was underway. He insisted that the situation was now under government control.
Panic spread across the capital, Cotonou, starting Sunday morning. A BBC report confirmed the sound of heavy gunfire near the Presidential residence, specifically in the ‘Camp Guezo’ area. Local sources confirmed that “live ammunition” was used there. The sudden shooting caused widespread panic. Many civilians fled seeking safe shelter.
Security around the Presidential Palace was immediately reinforced. Authorities also restricted general movement in the central areas of the capital.
International Response
Due to the developing crisis in Benin, the French Embassy advised its citizens to remain indoors. In a statement, the embassy urged everyone to stay alert and follow government instructions until the situation clears.
