Benin Military Coup Attempt Foiled, Reflects Growing Instability in West Africa
In Benin, a military coup attempt was thwarted after a group of soldiers announced the removal of President Patrice Talon and the dissolution of the government. The coup, which unfolded on state television, was quickly countered by Benin's Interior Minister Alassane Seidou, who confirmed that the military remained loyal to the republic. This incident is part of a broader pattern of military takeovers in West Africa, where countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have experienced similar upheavals. These coups often follow disputed elections, constitutional crises, and public discontent, leading to military juntas taking control. The situation in Benin highlights the ongoing challenges of political stability in the region.