The Socialist Movement of Ghana (SMG) has warned the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) against actions that could strengthen Benin President Patrice Talon’s authority, citing a sharp decline in democratic governance in the country.
In a statement on Tuesday, SMG highlighted concerns over political repression, shrinking civic space, and judicial interventions targeting opposition figures, including Sébastien Ajavon and Reckya Madougou, who were forced into exile or imprisoned under widely criticised procedures.
“These are not isolated incidents, they form a clear pattern. Under Patrice Talon, Benin has experienced some of the most rapid democratic backsliding in West Africa,” the movement said.
SMG criticised ECOWAS for its inconsistent response to democratic violations, warning that endorsing Talon risks sending the wrong signal and undermining the bloc’s credibility. The group emphasised that West Africans expect ECOWAS to prioritise citizens’ rights over incumbent governments’ convenience.
“ECOWAS must support citizen-led reforms, demand the reopening of political space, the release of political prisoners, truly competitive elections, and the restoration of independent institutions,” SMG stated.
Framing the crisis as a regional concern, SMG said Talon represents an elite-driven vision of leadership that suppresses dissent, privatizes state resources, and centralises power, contrasting with the popular vision advocating dignity, participation, and justice.
The movement concluded by urging ECOWAS to withdraw support that reinforces Talon’s rule and instead back democratic reforms reflecting the will of the Beninese people.
