ACCRA, Dec 7 (The African Portal) – The African Union (AU) has strongly condemned the attempted military coup in the Republic of Benin, following this morning’s events in which a group of soldiers briefly declared a takeover.
The statement was issued on December 7, 2025 by the AU’s Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Yousouf.
According to the AU, any form of military interference in political processes “constitutes a grave violation of the fundamental principles and values” of the union.
The statement recalls key AU normative frameworks — including the 2000 Constitutive Act, the 2000 Lomé Declaration, the 2007 Charter on Democracy, and the 2009 Ezulwini Framework — all of which reject unconstitutional changes of government and uphold constitutional order and democratic legitimacy as essential for peace and stability.
AU Chairperson Yousouf called on the soldiers involved to “immediately cease all unlawful actions,” respect Benin’s constitution, and return to their barracks without delay.
He also urged all national stakeholders to prioritise unity, dialogue, and the preservation of national peace.
Expressing deep concern over the growing number of coups and coup attempts across the region, the AU warned that such actions erode public trust in institutions, weaken state authority, and jeopardize collective safety.
The union reaffirmed its “zero tolerance” approach to unconstitutional changes of government — regardless of context or justification — and pledged its ongoing support to the legitimate authorities of Benin, including President Patrice Talon, as well as to the Beninese people.
The statement concluded by emphasizing the AU’s readiness to work with regional and international partners to help restore constitutional order and strengthen democratic institutions in Benin.
