Sun Dec 07 09:02:06 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
A military coup has occurred in Benin, West Africa. A group calling itself the Military Committee for Refoundation appeared on state television on December 7, 2025, announcing the dissolution of the government and the removal of President Patrice Talon. Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri has been appointed president of the military committee. This coup follows a period of relative political stability since 1991 but marks a return to the turbulent political history of Benin after its independence from France in 1960. The coup comes after a contested political climate, including the extension of the presidential term and controversy surrounding opposition candidates. This is the latest in a series of military takeovers in West Africa.
News Article:
Benin Government Overthrown in Military Coup
Cotonou, Benin – A military coup has ousted President Patrice Talon’s government in Benin, West Africa. On Sunday, December 7, 2025, a group of soldiers identifying themselves as the Military Committee for Refoundation appeared on state television to announce the dissolution of the government and the removal of President Talon.
The group has named Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri as the new head of state, appointing him president of the military committee.
The coup throws Benin into political uncertainty after a period of relative stability since 1991. While the nation experienced numerous coups following its independence from France in 1960, the two-decade rule of Mathieu Kerekou, which began in 1991, ushered in a more stable era. President Talon, in power since 2016, was scheduled to step down next April after presidential elections. His party’s expected candidate, former Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni, was considered the frontrunner.
Recent political developments leading up to the coup included the extension of the presidential term from five to seven years by the legislature, although maintaining the two-term limit. The electoral commission’s rejection of opposition candidate Renaud Agbodjo, citing insufficient sponsors, had also generated controversy.
This takeover is the latest in a concerning trend of military coups across West Africa. Just last week, a coup in Guinea-Bissau led to the removal of former President Umaro Embalo, following a disputed election. The international community is closely watching the situation in Benin as it unfolds.
First Piper 