Attempted coup in Benin. Former President Boni Yayi breaks his silence

A group of soldiers had tried to attack the president’s residence and the national television station before being quickly neutralized by regular forces. The event plunged the country into a day of uncertainty and prompted numerous reactions within the political class.

In a solemn statement made public on Tuesday, Boni Yayi strongly condemned the initiative of these soldiers. He recalled the importance of institutional functioning based on the will of the people, freedom and transparency which, in his view, remain the indispensable foundations of political stability.

The former head of state also stressed the need to preserve social peace in a context where the slightest drift could weaken democratic gains.

His appeal resonated in a political landscape already marked by numerous reactions. Adrien Houngbédji, Nicéphore Soglo, Robert Dossou and other influential figures have in turn denounced the act carried out by the mutineers and called on the population to remain calm. All highlighted the resilience of the institutions and the vigilance of the security forces, presented as the guarantors of the continuity of the State.

President Patrice Talon, directly targeted by this foiled operation, for his part assured that those behind the attempt will be found and punished. He called it an outrage which, he says, will not go unpunished.

As the investigation continues, the political class shows a rare unanimity around preserving constitutional order. Boni Yayi concluded his intervention by inviting Beninese to pray for peace and to strengthen national unity.