UN Condemns Attempted Power Grab in Benin Republic

Story: Written by Joseph December 9,2025

The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has voiced deep concern over the recent attempt to unlawfully seize power in the Benin Republic.

In a statement from his office, Guterres expressed serious worry about the “unconstitutional attempt to take control,” warning that any action that threatens democratic governance in Benin could worsen instability within the West African sub-region.

He firmly denounced all efforts to destabilize Benin’s democratic order, noting that such moves risk heightening existing tensions in the region.

Guterres appealed to all stakeholders to maintain strict respect for the rule of law and the nation’s Constitution, stressing the need to safeguard democratic institutions from interference or disruption.

His statement read:
“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 and the Constitution.”

The Secretary-General added that the UN remains committed to supporting national and regional bodies working to uphold constitutional order in Benin and throughout West Africa, in partnership with ECOWAS and the African Union.