Polls open in Benin presidential election, finance minister a favourite

Lead

Benin goes to the polls on Sunday, April 12, to elect a new president, with Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni widely expected to succeed Patrice Talon, who is stepping down after two five-year terms. The vote, which pits Wadagni against a single opponent, former culture minister Paul Hounkpè, comes amid a mixed backdrop of economic growth and political tensions, including a failed coup attempt four months ago.

Coverage comparison

Reports from multiple outlets, including Africa News and Al Jazeera, present a consistent picture of the election's likely outcome. The Guardian offers a more critical framing, describing the contest as feeling "more like a coronation than a contest." While some sources focus on the economic achievements of the Talon era, others highlight restrictions on political opposition and the exclusion of the main opposition party, the Democrats, from the ballot.

Key claims

Wadagni, who has served as finance minister for a decade, is described by several reports as the "chosen successor" of President Talon and is backed by the ruling bloc. He faces only one challenger, Paul Hounkpè, a former teacher and mayor who served as culture minister under former president Thomas Boni Yayi. Hounkpè, 56, is widely seen as a moderate and is promoting an agenda focused on development, national cohesion, and governance based on dialogue and close engagement with citizens, according to the WATHI Think Thank.

The main opposition party, the Democrats, was barred from running after failing to secure the required number of parliamentary endorsements, according to multiple sources. Some voters and analysts have expressed skepticism about the credibility of the process. "There can't be any real enthusiasm; for that, you would need debate and each side would have to believe in its chances," political analyst Rufin Godjo told Africa News. A civil servant in Cotonou, Roch Gbenou, said he expects the election will "only serve to legitimize a choice already made."

Benin's economy has grown steadily under Talon, with the economy expanding 7% last year, according to the International Monetary Fund, as reported by Africa News. However, poverty remains entrenched in rural areas and in the northern region, and voters in Cotonou have complained about the rising cost of living. "If you go to the market now, ginger costs 500 [fcfa]. Tomatoes — in fact, everything is expensive," food vendor Aliou Falilatou said.

The election comes just four months after a failed coup attempt in December, when soldiers stormed television studios to announce the overthrow of Talon, according to Africa News. Loyal forces quickly quashed the bid. The country also faces security challenges from jihadist attacks in the north, as noted by multiple reports.

A constitutional reform passed last year extended the presidential term from five to seven years, meaning the next election after this one will not take place until 2033.

Perspectives

Supporters of the ruling party point to economic gains under Wadagni's stewardship, including streamlined business registration and major infrastructure projects. "If you want to set up a business in Benin, you can do it in an hour," business owner Claudia Togbe told Africa News.

Critics, however, accuse Talon and his allies of crushing dissent and restricting democratic freedoms. The Guardian cites critics who describe Talon as a "strongman," and some voters say they will not participate. "This election is not inclusive," teacher Arnold Dessouassi said. "You cannot talk about genuine democratic competition when some key political players are barred."

Hounkpè's campaign is urging citizens to turn out for change. "Change is possible, it is the people of Benin who hold power," said FCBE activist Ruben Abadagan. His running mate, Rock Hounwanou, called for a new social contract, including the release of political prisoners.

Despite the skepticism, the election offers Benin a chance to demonstrate democratic resilience after a failed coup and amid regional instability. If Wadagni wins, he will be one of the youngest leaders on the continent, in a region where several neighbors are ruled by juntas.