Benin’s government announced on Sunday that its armed forces successfully thwarted a coup attempt after a group of soldiers claimed, through national television, to have seized control. The incident highlights the ongoing instability in the West African region, where military takeovers have recently disrupted democratic governments in neighboring countries, including Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau.
The coup attempt unfolded early Sunday morning when at least eight soldiers, some armed, appeared on state television declaring that a military committee led by Colonel Tigri Pascal had taken over the government. They proclaimed the dissolution of national institutions, the suspension of the constitution, and the closure of all borders—land, maritime, and air.
In a statement, one of the soldiers pledged that the army would bring hope to the Beninese people, promising “a truly new era, where fraternity, justice, and work prevail.” However, shortly thereafter, Interior Minister Alassane Seidou reassured the public that the coup attempt had been successfully neutralized, urging citizens to continue their daily activities without fear.
The swift government response reflects Benin’s commitment to maintaining democratic ideals amidst regional challenges. Despite the tension arising from such military ambitions, the government remains focused on fostering stability and reassuring its people of their safety and the continuity of governance.
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