ECOWAS threatens to intervene after coup attempt in Benin
via SeneNews1 min read
ECOWAS expressed deep concern on Saturday, December 7, 2025, over reports of a military coup attempt in the Republic of Benin. The ECOWAS Commission strongly condemned this coup, calling it contrary to the Constitution and the will of the Beninese people. The regional organization praised the joint efforts of the Beninese government and the republican army to restore order and secure the country. ECOWAS warned the perpetrators, holding them responsible for any loss of life or property damage. The organization reiterated its readiness to support the Beninese government and people, including deploying its regional rapid intervention force, to defend the Constitution and territorial integrity. The situation in Benin remains under close surveillance, with local authorities maintaining strict control over security forces and the population.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Federation FSF, has ignited widespread controversy following his public statements regarding the national team's doctor, Dr. F茅dior. During a press conference reviewing the 2026 World Cup, Fall claimed he "late discovered" that Dr. F茅dior was a gynecologist and that "the players were not convinced." These remarks have drawn significant attention from international media and social networks, extending beyond internal Senegalese football discussions. Fall's comments have raised questions about the choice of the team doctor and the FSF's operational procedures. Dr. F茅dior, a well-known figure in Senegalese football medicine, has had his competence publicly challenged despite having stated in 2018 that he had extensive experience in sports medicine, beginning with US Gor茅e in 1986, alongside his gynecology specialization. The controversy has led to inquiries about why Dr. F茅dior remained part of the medical staff if his profile was deemed unsuitable for a World Cup, and why his specialization is now being highlighted as a reason for Senegal's performance. Furthermore, Fall's public attribution of the team's difficulties to a member of its medical staff has exposed the FSF's recruitment, validation, and monitoring processes for national delegation officials.
The controversy surrounding Senegal's elimination from the 2026 World Cup continues, with Idrissa Gana Gueye posting an enigmatic message on social media shortly after a press conference by Abdoulaye Fall, president of the Senegalese Football Federation. Fall had justified the decision to part ways with coach Pape Thiaw, criticizing the team's preparation, technical choices, and staff operations. Gueye, who had previously supported Thiaw, did not directly name Fall or Thiaw but hinted at a different interpretation of events. He wrote, "Alhamdoulillah, in all circumstances. Proud of you, guys! But... now, let's talk about it. What do you think? Since the end of the match, I can't find the words or truly understand what happened. I do have my own little idea... And you?" This refers to the match against Belgium, where Senegal led 2-0 until the 85th minute before losing, leading to their World Cup elimination. Gueye's message is expected to fuel further debate on accountability for the failure, suggesting some players may have a different perspective than the Federation.
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