Benin’s Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni has secured a decisive victory in the country’s presidential election, winning 94 percent of votes according to provisional results released by the electoral commission.
His main challenger, Paul Hounkpe, conceded defeat before the final results were declared, offering what he described as “republican congratulations” and calling for national unity.
Overall voter turnout stood at 58.75 percent, although participation in some urban areas was significantly lower, ranging between 20 and 40 percent.
Observers described the election as largely peaceful and well-organised despite the uneven turnout.
Wadagni, who is backed by outgoing President Patrice Talon, is expected to maintain the government’s focus on economic growth and infrastructure development.
However, his administration faces major challenges, including persistent poverty, widening inequality, and rising security concerns linked to jihadist activity in northern Benin.
With presidential terms now extended to seven years, Wadagni is expected to remain in office until 2033 unless constitutional changes occur.
