The soldiers said they were suspending the constitution and dissolving the government and political parties
In a startling announcement on national television, soldiers in Benin have declared the ousting of President Patrice Talon and their assumption of power.
Reports from the French embassy in Benin indicate that gunfire was heard near the presidential residence in the capital, Cotonou.
The military forces have also declared the suspension of the constitution, along with the closure of all land borders and the nation’s airspace.
In their statement, Lieutenant-Colonel Tigri Pascal has been appointed to lead a military transition council.
President Patrice Talon, a businessman known as the “king of cotton”, has said he intends step down next year after two terms in office
The military leaders justified their actions by criticizing President Talon’s handling of the nation.
At 67 years old, Talon is set to complete his second term next year, with elections slated for April. Known as the “king of cotton,” he first assumed power following the 2016 election and had vowed not to run for a third term, already naming a successor.
In light of recent events, the French Embassy has advised its citizens to remain indoors for their safety.
This coup in Benin comes just over a week after President Umaro Sissoco Embaló was ousted in neighboring Guinea-Bissau.
