Romuald Wadagni, the 49-year-old Minister of Economy and candidate for the majority, presented his presidential program in Cotonou on March 21, 2026, three weeks before the election. His platform emphasizes fostering youth, technological innovation, and regional development.
Key points
- Wadagni is the designated successor to President Patrice Talon, who must step down after two terms.
- The election is scheduled for April 12, where Wadagni's only opponent will be Paul Hounkpè of the moderate FCBE party.
- The main opposition party, Les Démocrates, was excluded due to insufficient endorsements.
- Wadagni plans to divide Benin into six regions for focused development in industry, tourism, innovation, and agriculture.
- He stressed the importance of collaborating more with neighboring countries, noting Benin's recent experience with jihadist attacks in the north.
Why it matters
This event marks a key moment in Benin's political transition as the ruling party's candidate outlines his vision shortly before the presidential election.