Benin police arrest former defence minister turned opposition leader Candide Azannai
NegativeWorld Affairs
- Former defense minister and opposition leader Candide Azannai was arrested by police in Cotonou, Benin, on Friday. His detention comes amid heightened tensions following a foiled coup attempt on December 7, 2025, which has left the political landscape in turmoil.
- Azannai's arrest is significant as it reflects the ongoing crackdown on dissent in Benin, particularly against opposition figures. His role as a prominent critic of the government raises concerns about the implications for political freedom and civil rights in the country.
- The recent coup attempt and subsequent arrests highlight a broader trend of instability in Benin, where military interventions have become increasingly common. The government's swift response to the coup, including the arrest of several individuals, underscores the fragile nature of democracy in the region and the challenges faced by the current administration in maintaining control.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System