Benin: soldiers announce coup, president: regained control
A group of soldiers appeared on Benin state television announcing a coup d'état and the dissolution of the government. The group, which called itself the Military Committee for Re-foundation, announced the removal of the president and all state institutions, and the appointment of Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri as chairman of the Military Committee.
Local media report, however, that President Patrice Talon is 'safe' and that the army is regaining control. "It is a small group of people who only control the television," sources close to Talon let it be known. "The regular army is regaining control. The city and the country are completely safe,' the sources added.
Farnesina follows situation closely
"The Farnesina and the Italian Embassy in Abuja, which is responsible for Benin, are closely following the development of the situation following the coup d'état being carried out by military forces. Minister Antonio Tajani is constantly informed'. This was written by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on its X profile, inviting "for any emergency or report" to contact "the Crisis Unit at +39 06 36225 or unita.crisi@esteri.it or the Embassy at +234 803 5235848".
African Union: firm condemnation of military coup attempt
'Firm and unequivocal' condemnation by the African Union of the 'attempted military coup' in Benin. For the chairman of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Yousouf, "any form of military interference in political processes is a serious violation of the bloc's fundamental principles and values". He confirmed his support for President Patrice Talon, who - in power since 2016 - is expected to leave power after the elections next April. 'All those involved in the coup attempt' are asked to 'put an immediate end to the illegal actions, fully respect the Constitution of Benin' and all parties to 'prioritise unity, dialogue and the maintenance of civil peace'.
"Yousouf's 'grave concern' over the 'disturbing proliferation of coups and attempted coups in parts of the region'. On the part of the African Union, the statement reiterates, is 'zero tolerance' for 'all unconstitutional changes of government, regardless of context or motivation'. The AU 'stands ready, in coordination with partners in the region and internationally, to accompany the government and people of Benin towards the restoration of constitutional normality and the strengthening of democratic institutions'.
