UN reacts to attempted military coup in Benin Republic

The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has expressed strong concern over the attempted unconstitutional takeover in the Benin Republic.

In a statement released by his office, Guterres said he was “deeply concerned by the attempt to unconstitutionally seize power in Benin,” warning that any move to undermine democratic governance in the country could further endanger stability across the region.

He “condemned any attempt to undermine democratic governance in Benin,” stressing that such actions risk escalating tensions in an already fragile West African landscape.

The UN chief also urged all actors to ensure “full respect for the rule of law and the Constitution,” emphasising the need to protect democratic institutions from disruption.

The statement reads, “I am deeply concerned by the attempt to unconstitutionally seize power in Benin.

“I condemn any attempt to undermine democratic governance in Benin, which could also further threaten the stability of the region.

“I call for full respect for the rule of law & the Constitution.”

According to the UN chief, the organisation remained committed to backing national and regional institutions in defending constitutional order “in Benin and across West Africa,” and was working closely with ECOWAS and the African Union on a coordinated response.