Cotonou: The United Nations, European Union, and regional blocs have voiced their strong condemnation following a coup attempt in Benin. The UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) highlighted the severity of this event, describing it as a significant threat to Benin's stability and constitutional order. The coup attempt, which took place on Sunday, was swiftly countered by authorities, restoring control and stability.
According to Anadolu Agency - English, Leonardo Santos Simao, the UN Special Representative, expressed his deep concern over the developments while commending the Beninese authorities for their prompt action. Simao extended solidarity to President Patrice Talon, the government, and the people of Benin, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to protect civilians and maintain peace. He assured that UNOWAS would remain supportive of Benin in its pursuit of peace, democracy, and stability.
The European Union, through its spokesperson Anita Hipper, also condemned the coup attempt. In a statement on the US social media platform X, Hipper called for adherence to the constitutional order in Benin. The African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) joined in denouncing the coup, expressing their support for the Beninese government in maintaining constitutional order.
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the AU Commission Chair, urged the coup plotters to cease all illegal activities and respect the Constitution of Benin. He voiced concerns over the increasing number of military coups and attempts in the region, which he said undermine stability and democratic progress. Youssouf reaffirmed the AU's zero-tolerance policy towards unconstitutional changes of government.
ECOWAS echoed similar sentiments, pledging to support Benin's government in defending its Constitution and territorial integrity. The bloc warned the coup plotters that they would be held accountable for any resulting harm or property damage. ECOWAS also praised the Beninese government and military for their role in restoring order, asserting that the coup attempt was an attack on the democratic will of the people.
The coup attempt involved a group of soldiers declaring on state television that they had ousted President Talon and appointed Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri as the leader of a newly established "Military Committee for Refoundation." However, Interior Minister Alassane Seidou announced on national television that the coup was thwarted by a small group of soldiers, advising citizens to continue their daily routines.
Later on Sunday, President Talon addressed the nation, assuring that the situation was fully under control and urging citizens to resume their regular activities. He recounted the events, highlighting the mutiny by a small group of soldiers aiming to disrupt republican institutions and destabilize the nation. President Talon affirmed his commitment to ensuring national security and expressed gratitude to the loyal army officials, promising that those involved in the coup attempt would face consequences.
This incident follows a recent military coup in Guinea-Bissau in late November, where Gen. Horta Inta-A assumed power as a transitional president.