Swift suppression of mutiny closes out brief tactical Sell lasting only hours; constitutional order restored
Failed coup reinforces 53-year stability record; Nigerian air support and ECOWAS support signal strong regional backing
Economic fundamentals stronger with WEO growth upgraded to 7% in October; gold tailwinds and fiscal consolidation intact
President Talon appeared on state television yesterday evening confirming loyalist forces had "cleared the last pockets of resistance" and the situation was "completely under control." Constitutional order was restored within 12 hours, demonstrating the mutiny's limited scope and the strength of Benin's institutions.
What happened
A small group of soldiers led by Lt Col Pascal Tigri seized the state broadcaster Sunday morning and announced they had removed President Talon. However, they failed to secure any other strategic assets. Interior Minister Alassane Seidou announced the coup foiled by mid-morning. By evening, 14 soldiers were arrested and mutineers were fleeing. Nigerian Air Force jets and ECOWAS standby forces deployed in support, though loyalists had already regained control. No violence reported Monday; situation appears normalised.
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Jamie Fallon is an economist @ Tellimer focussed on emerging market macro research.