Benin foils coup plot

(CLO) On Sunday morning (December 7), the peace in Cotonou, the commercial center of the West African nation of Benin, was broken by gunfire. A group of at least 8 armed soldiers took over the state television station.

Calling itself the "Committee for Military Reconstruction of Benin" (CMR) led by Colonel Tigri Pascal, the group announced the dissolution of national institutions, the suspension of the constitution and the closure of borders.

They cited the "deteriorating security situation in northern Benin" and "the disregard and abandonment of our fallen brothers" as reasons, pledging: "The Army solemnly pledges to give the people of Benin hope for a truly new era where fraternity, justice and work prevail."

Benin President Patrice Talon. Photo: USAID

However, the coup attempt was quickly quelled within hours. Forces loyal to Benin President Patrice Talon acted decisively, regaining control of the TV station and key positions.

By the evening of the same day, President Talon appeared on television to assert: "Loyal forces have stood firm, recaptured our positions, and cleared the last pockets of resistance held by the rebels... This commitment and mobilization has enabled us to defeat the adventurers and prevent the worst for the country."

"This betrayal will not be tolerated," he also asserted.

The Benin government immediately took legal action. Spokesman Wilfried Leandre Houngbedji and Interior Minister Alassane Seidou confirmed that 14 people, mostly soldiers, had been arrested. Minister Seidou called on the public to remain calm and "continue business as usual".

The event received strong reactions from the international community. Responding to the request of the Benin government, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu mobilized fighter jets and ground troops to help control airspace and key targets.

Both the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU) condemned the coup. ECOWAS decided to immediately deploy a reserve force of troops from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Ivory Coast and Ghana to Benin to ensure security.

The coup attempt took place in the context of instability in the West African region with a series of military coups in neighboring countries such as Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali.

Source: https://congluan.vn/benin-dap-tat-am-muu-dao-chinh-10321741.html