Last month, the country’s legislature extended the presidential term of office from five to seven years, keeping the term limit at two. (Photo: screengrab) An attempted military coup played out on live TV in the West African nation of Benin on Sunday after a group of soldiers took over the broadcast to announce the dissolution of the government led by President Patrice Talon.
The group, which called itself the Military Committee for Refoundation, announced the removal of the president and all state institutions.
[WATCH] Military coup in Benin. Soldiers led by Lieutenant Pascal Tigri announce that they have taken over the country, ousting President Patrice Talon, who is due to step down in April after 10 years in power. pic.twitter.com/0BWaWrKbu0
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According to the soldiers, Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri has been appointed president of the military committee.
Last month, the country’s legislature extended the presidential term of office from five to seven years, keeping the term limit at two.
Talon who is in his second term was projected to be succeeded by former Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni in the elections, scheduled for next year. Opposition candidate Renaud Agbodjo was rejected by the electoral commission on the grounds that he did not have sufficient sponsors.
AFP, quoting Talon’s office, said the president is “safe”, adding that his whereabouts have not been communicated.
