Benin Arrests Three Men, Including Former Minister, Over Suspected Coup Plot

In a dramatic turn of events, authorities in Benin have arrested three individuals, including a former sports minister and a high-ranking security official, on suspicion of plotting a coup against President Patrice Talon’s government. The state prosecutor announced the arrests during a press conference, shedding light on a conspiracy that could further destabilize the West African nation.
The former sports minister, Oswald Homeky, was apprehended while allegedly handing over six bags of money to the head of the Republican Guard, Colonel Elonm Mario Metonou. Investigators revealed that Col. Djimon Dieudonne Tevoedjre was reportedly being bribed to not resist the planned coup, which was reportedly set to take place this Friday.
Also detained was businessman Olivier Boko, a close associate of President Talon who has expressed political ambitions. Boko’s lawyers have condemned his arrest, calling it an “abduction” and demanding his immediate release, asserting that his detention is politically motivated.
The prosecutor indicated that investigations are ongoing to identify additional suspects involved in the alleged coup plot. This incident raises alarms about the current political climate in Benin, a country that was once hailed as a multi-party democracy but has seen a shift towards autocracy under Talon’s leadership, according to rights groups.
Benin is situated within a region that has experienced a wave of political instability, with eight military coups and numerous other attempts across West and Central Africa since 2020. This troubling trend has prompted concerns over democratic governance and the rule of law in these nations.
Despite these challenges, President Talon has announced he will not seek a third term in the 2026 elections, a move that some observers view as an attempt to alleviate tensions and restore some degree of political stability.
Conclusion
The recent arrests in Benin underscore the fragility of the political landscape as the nation grapples with both internal dissent and external pressures. As investigations continue, the international community will be watching closely, hoping for a resolution that supports democracy and stability in the region.