By Francis Kobena Tandoh
The African Union (AU) and West Africa’s sub-regional body, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), have condemned the attempted coup by the military in Benin, according to separate statements on Sunday.
The AU, in a statement, said the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Yousouf, “strongly and unequivocally condemns the military coup attempt” in Benin, stressing that any form of military interference in political processes is “a grave violation of the fundamental principles and values” of the AU.
The statement also reaffirmed the bloc’s support for Talon, the legitimate authorities of Benin, and its people.
“The African Union stands ready, in coordination with regional and international partners, to accompany the Government and People of Benin toward the full restoration of constitutional normalcy and the strengthening of democratic institutions.”
ECOWAS also strongly condemned the attempted military takeover and urged restoration of order in the small West African nation.
In a statement, the bloc said it “strongly condemned the attempted military coup in Benin and would support efforts by the government to restore order.”
A group of soldiers in Benin announced early Sunday on state broadcaster Benin TV that President Patrice Talon had been “removed from office,” months ahead of the presidential election scheduled for April 2026.
Identifying themselves as the “Military Committee for the Refoundation (CMR),” the soldiers said they convened on Sunday and decided that “Mr. Patrice Talon is dismissed from his functions as president of the republic.” Enditem
Source: Ghana Eye Report
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