Last Updated:
A major coup attempt took place in the West African country Benin on Sunday. A faction of the army came on national television and claimed to have captured power. But the government immediately hit back and declared it a failure. The Interior Minister of Benin made it clear that the Armed Forces have crushed this rebellion. Earlier, the soldiers had announced on TV to abrogate the Constitution and seal the border. This incident is considered another major threat to democracy in West Africa. In recent years, coups have taken place in neighboring countries like Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali. However, the Benin government says that the situation is now under control. Soldiers loyal to President Patrice Talon have taken up positions.
The soldiers had announced on TV: A group of soldiers appeared on national TV. At least eight soldiers were involved in this. Many of them were wearing helmets. He announced that a military committee led by Colonel Tigri Pascal had taken power. These soldiers talked about dissolving all the institutions of the country. Also claimed to suspend the Constitution. He said that the country’s air, land and sea borders have been closed. Reading a statement, a soldier said the army wanted to give hope for a new era to the people of Benin. Where brotherhood, justice and work will get priority.
Government claims – Conspiracy foiled: The government became active shortly after the soldiers’ claim. Interior Minister Alassane Seydou issued a statement. He said that the Armed Forces have foiled the coup attempt. Earlier, Foreign Minister Olushegun Ajadi Bakri had also clarified the situation. He told news agency Reuters that a ‘small group’ of soldiers had tried to topple the government. But security forces loyal to President Patrice Talon are trying to restore order. The government has appealed to the people to maintain peace. An operation was conducted to control the rebel soldiers.
Crisis on democracy in West Africa: This incident in Benin seems to be part of an ongoing trend in West Africa. This region has been facing political instability for the last few years. The army has already captured power in Benin’s neighboring countries Niger and Burkina Faso. Apart from this, coups have also taken place in Mali and Guinea. Just last month, a similar attempt was made in Guinea-Bissau. These incidents have posed a threat to democratic norms in the entire region. Benin was considered stable till now but this incident has increased the concern. The international community is also keeping an eye on this.
