Benin president replaces military high command
General Abou Issa, who survived a coup attempt, now leads the military after a complete reshuffle on November 4.
Benin's entire military high command was replaced on November 4, with General Abou Issa appointed to lead the new structure. Issa is an experienced officer who previously survived an attempted coup on December 7, 2025. The reshuffle was approved by the Council of Ministers and announced by the Minister of Defence.
Speculation about a military reorganization had circulated for months within the Benin army. President Romuald Wadagni, who was inaugurated on May 24, has now acted on these rumors. The previous high command was removed following this decision.
The announcement was made on November 4, with a modification to the report published the following day. The military changes come after the celebration of Benin's 66th anniversary of national and international sovereignty on August 1, 2026.
Why it mattersBenin's military leadership has been completely changed, affecting national security and the chain of command.