Paul-Émile de Souza (July 14, 1930[3] – June 17, 1999) was a Beninese army officer and political figure.

[6] When Soglo was overthrown later that year, de Souza was chosen as Emile Derlin Zinsou's Director of Military Affairs.

[8] Since the two men could not end their quarrels, a Military Directorate was established with de Souza as its chairman,[11] Kouandete a member, and Col. Benoit Sinzogan of the Gendarmie occupying the third seat.

It was marked by a series of violent outbursts; unvalidated reports state that six people were killed were wounded at incidents in Parakou on the eve of the elections.

[13] Former presidents Hubert Maga, Sourou-Migan Apithy, and Justin Ahomadégbé-Tomêtin received a majority of the vote in the north, southeast, and southwest/central, respectively.

[14] Colonel Paul-Émile De Souza returned to his role as Chief of Staff of the Dahomeyan Army.