Cotonou – In the early hours of Sunday, December 7, 2025, armed soldiers launched a dramatic takeover in Benin, attacking the residence of Patrice Talon and seizing control of the state broadcaster to declare an end to his government.
A group identifying itself as the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR) announced on national television that the government had been dissolved, and all political institutions suspended. They further declared that Talon had been removed from office.
The takeover appears to have been spearheaded by Pascal Tigri, a lieutenant colonel in the armed forces. He was named chairman of the CMR and leader of the military transition.
According to the CMR’s statement, their justification for the coup includes “degradation of security in the north of the country, lack of transparency in awarding public contracts, controversial laws, exclusion of contrary political views and worsening living conditions for soldiers and civil servants.”
They also announced the suspension of the constitution, the immediate closure of land borders and the country’s airspace. The military said it was now assuming control of state affairs.
Gunfire was reportedly heard near the presidential residence, and the embassy of France to Benin warned of violence near “Camp Guézo,” urging citizens to remain indoors. Talon’s whereabouts remain unknown at this time.
Talon, who came to power in 2016, was due to step down next year after two terms — a constitutional limit he had publicly affirmed.
For now the country is shrouded in uncertainty. Observers both inside Benin and across the region are watching closely.
More updates as event unfolds
