Authorities in Benin have ordered the pre-trial detention of Candide Azannai, a former defence minister and influential opposition leader, in connection with investigations of the coup attempt earlier this month.
The move places one of the country’s most outspoken government critics at the centre of a widening security and political crisis following the unrest.
Azannai was arrested at his party’s headquarters in Cotonou and accused of plotting against the state as well as incitement to rebellion.
His detention has drawn attention because it comes despite his public denunciation of the December 7 coup attempt, which he had described as an attack on Benin’s constitutional order.
After his arrest, Azannai was taken before Benin’s anti-terrorism court, where he was questioned by prosecutors handling cases linked to the foiled uprising.
In the early hours of the morning, police escorted him from the court premises and transferred him into custody, formally placing him in pre-trial detention as investigations continue.
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The failed coup attempt has prompted a sweeping security response from the authorities. Earlier this week, around 30 individuals—most of them soldiers—were sentenced to prison on treason-related charges connected to the plot.
The uprising led to multiple deaths, heightening public anxiety and prompting calls for accountability.
Several suspected mutineers are still on the run, including the alleged leader of the coup, Lieutenant-Colonel Pascal Tigri, who has not yet been apprehended.
Azannai’s detention has further intensified debate about the state of democracy in Benin. President Patrice Talon, who is widely credited with driving economic growth and infrastructure development, has also faced persistent criticism from opposition figures and human rights advocates who accuse his administration of consolidating power and limiting political freedoms.
Once considered a pillar of democratic stability in West Africa, Benin has in recent years experienced increasing political strain alongside growing security threats.
The country has been battling rising jihadist violence in its northern regions, placing additional pressure on the government and security forces.
Prime Business
