Benin Foils Attempt to Oust President Talon
Cotonou, Benin – December 3, 2025 – A coup attempt against President Patrice Talon was thwarted Sunday by loyalist troops, according to a government minister. The effort to destabilize Benin’s government unfolded amidst rising political tensions and security concerns in West africa, a region grappling with a wave of military takeovers.
The foiled coup underscores a growing trend of instability across the region, raising fears of further democratic backsliding. Benin, once considered a stable democracy, now faces questions about its vulnerability to similar challenges. The incident comes as neighboring countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have experienced prosperous coups in recent years, prompting regional and international condemnation.
Minister of Communications Alain Gbénou made the declaration, stating that the situation is now under control. details remain scarce, but authorities report that the plot was uncovered and neutralized before significant disruption could occur. No immediate information has been released regarding arrests or the identities of those involved.
The African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have swiftly condemned the attempted coup. AU Commission chair Mahmoud Ali Yousouf reaffirmed the pan-african organization’s “zero tolerance stance toward any unconstitutional change of government, irrespective of context or justification.” He warned that such actions “erode citizens’ trust in public institutions, weaken state authority, and endanger collective security.”
