Overview
- Interior Minister Alassane Seidou said a small group of soldiers launched an uprising that was frustrated by the armed forces and their leadership.
- Soldiers appeared on state television announcing the dissolution of the government and named a Military Committee for Refoundation led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri.
- Gunfire was reported near the presidential residence, the president’s status was not officially disclosed, and state TV and public radio signals were cut then later restored.
- ECOWAS issued a statement denouncing the unconstitutional action and vowed assistance to uphold Benin’s constitution and territorial integrity.
- The incident unfolded during a tense political period with April presidential elections approaching, a recent extension of presidential terms from five to seven years, convictions linked to an alleged 2024 plot, and the ruling party’s candidate favored to win.