Benin’s authorities have arrested three prominent individuals, including a former minister and the head of the Presidential Guard, on suspicion of orchestrating a coup d’état. The arrests were confirmed by the state prosecutor during a press conference.
The suspects include Oswald Homeky, a former sports minister, and Olivier Boko, a well-known businessman and close associate of President Patrice Talon. They were apprehended while allegedly attempting to bribe Colonel Djimon Dieudonne Tevoedjre, the commander of the Republican Guard, with six bags of money. The bribe was intended to ensure that the guard would not resist the planned coup, which was set to take place on Friday.
The prosecutor revealed that the plot was uncovered through a meticulous investigation, and further suspects are being identified. The arrests have sparked significant controversy, with Boko’s supporters condemning his detention as an “abduction” and demanding his immediate release.
This incident comes at a time when Benin, once celebrated for its democratic governance, is experiencing increasing political tension. President Talon has announced that he will not seek a third term in the 2026 elections, amid growing concerns about the country’s shift towards autocracy.
The situation in Benin is part of a broader trend of political instability in West and Central Africa, with multiple military takeovers and coup attempts occurring in the region since 2020
