By Peter Omopo
Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni has won a decisive victory in Benin’s presidential election, securing more than 94 per cent of the vote, according to provisional results released by the electoral authorities.
Chairman of the electoral commission, Sacca Lafia, said the figures were based on over 90 per cent of ballots counted, giving Wadagni an unassailable lead. Voter turnout was recorded at 58.78 per cent.
Opposition candidate Paul Hounkpe of the Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin party conceded defeat shortly after the results began to emerge, offering what he described as “republican congratulations” and calling for unity.
Wadagni, widely regarded as the preferred successor to outgoing President Patrice Talon, was backed by the ruling coalition. Talon is stepping down after completing the constitutionally mandated two terms in office.
The election followed a tense period in the country, coming months after a failed coup attempt that disrupted stability before security forces restored order.
Although nearly eight million voters were eligible to participate, reports indicated slow early voting in parts of the country, including the commercial hub of Cotonou.
During the campaign, Hounkpe criticised the government’s economic performance, arguing that despite strong GDP growth, estimated at 7.5 per cent in 2024, many citizens had not felt improvements in their living conditions.
In contrast, Wadagni pledged to expand access to clean water, strengthen social protection programmes, and improve healthcare delivery.
His victory was further bolstered by the absence of a candidate from the main opposition party, the Democrats, which failed to meet the threshold required to secure parliamentary representation earlier in the year.
Despite the landslide win, Wadagni faces significant challenges, including insecurity in the northern regions where armed groups linked to extremist networks remain active.
Economic concerns also persist, with poverty levels estimated at over 30 per cent, raising expectations for the incoming administration to translate economic growth into tangible benefits for citizens.
