Benin Army Lieutenant Takes Over State TV, Claims Presidency

A group of soldiers in Benin announced on state TV that they have overthrown President Patrice Talon, declaring themselves the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR). They stated that the government is dissolved, the constitution suspended, and political party activities halted, while borders are closed. Talon’s current whereabouts are unknown, but his office claims he is safe and that the regular army is regaining control. The French Embassy advised its citizens to stay indoors due to reported gunfire near the presidential residence.

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