Wadagni Votes, as Benin Picks Next President
Last update: April 14, 2026
Disclaimer: This website may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you click on the link and make a purchase. We only recommend products or services that we personally use and believe will add value to our readers. Your support is appreciated!
Talon stepped down after he failed to secure a third term due to constitution limit.
Finance Minister and Benin presidential candidate Romuald Wadagni voted on Sunday April 12, 2026 in Cotonou as voters chose the country's next president.
Outgone leader Patrice Talon stepped down after a decade in power.
Footage showed Wadagni at a polling station under tight security.
Wadagni, widely seen as the frontrunner, had the backing of Talon. He campaigned on preservation of the country's economic course after he oversaw annual growth of more than six per cent as finance minister.
His main challenger, Paul Hounkpe of the Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin, criticised the government's record.
He said the country's economic growth never improved residents' lives.
Turnout for the election was low despite nearly 8 million registered voters.
The elections marked the end of Talon's two-term presidency, after constitutional limits.
Several major opposition figures were excluded after strict endorsement requirements, this fueled debate over political pluralism in the country.
The election took place after a failed coup in December 2025. Campaigns focused on youth unemployment, healthcare reform and national sovereignty, amid concerns over alleged French influence and questions about electoral integrity.
