The Republic of Benin has placed former defence minister and opposition leader Candide Azannai in pre-trial detention following last month’s failed coup attempt. Authorities say the move is part of an ongoing investigation into the attempted overthrow of President Patrice Talon.
Azannai, arrested last week at his party’s headquarters in Cotonou, faces accusations of plotting against the state and incitement to rebellion, according to AFP reports. His detention follows the jailing of about 30 people, mostly soldiers, earlier this week on treason charges linked to the December 7 uprising.
On that day, soldiers announced on national television that they had taken control of the government, but loyalist forces quickly regained power, with support from the Nigerian Air Force. The coup attempt left several dead, while some alleged plotters, including Lieutenant-Colonel Pascal Tigri, are still on the run.
After several hours of questioning at Benin’s anti-terrorism court, Azannai was escorted by police at dawn and formally taken into custody.
President Talon, praised for driving economic growth, faces criticism from opponents who accuse him of authoritarian practices in a country once celebrated for its democratic traditions. Meanwhile, Benin continues to deal with growing jihadist activity in its northern regions.
Talon is expected to step down in April after completing the constitutionally mandated two terms.
