The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, has condemned an attempted coup by a group of soldiers in Benin Republic.
On Sunday, gunshots were heard near President Patrice Talon’s residence as armoured vehicles deployed in the presidential palace patrolled the precinct.
The group, which labelled itself the Military Committee for Refoundation, said the president and all political officeholders have been effectively removed, and that all institutions have been dissolved.
The presidency subsequently announced that Talon is safe and the “regular” army is regaining control.
Advertisement
In a statement few hours later, the ECOWAS commission said the “unconstitutional move” was a subversion of the will of the people of Benin.
The commission praised the efforts of the government and the republican army in bringing the situation under control. It also called for the “full respect of the constitution” of Benin.
“ECOWAS holds the leaders of the plot both individually and collectively responsable for any loss to life and property occasioned by their action,” the statement reads.
Advertisement
“ECOWAS will support the Government and the people in all forms necessary, including the deployment of the regional standby force, to defend the Constitution and the territorial integrity of Benin.”
In September 2024, Djimon Tevoedjre, commander of the Republican Guard and head of Talon’s security, was arrested following an attempted coup.
