In Benin, a planned International Labor Day march by the Workers’ Union (CSTB) was forcefully disrupted by the Republican Police in Cotonou. The incident led to the arrest of the union’s top official.

The march, scheduled for May 1, aimed to highlight workers’ concerns and present demands to the government. Participants had gathered at the Labor Exchange headquarters before police intervened.

Eyewitnesses reported a heavy security presence as officers blocked the rally from proceeding, sparking criticism from labor rights advocates.

The disruption has raised fresh concerns over freedom of assembly and the treatment of union activities in Benin.