Benin welcomes François Silibi as new deputy in parliament
François Silibi officially took his seat in the National Assembly this Friday, July 10, 2026, filling the vacancy left by Louis Vlavonou, who has transitioned to the Senate as a member ex officio due to his prior role as President of the National Assembly.
Who is the new deputy?
Born in 1982, François Silibi is an English professor hailing from Ifangni—a town he now represents in the National Assembly. His swearing-in ceremony followed the day’s plenary session at the Governors’ Palace in Porto-Novo, the administrative capital of Benin.
Silibi steps into the role as a successor to Louis Vlavonou, who previously served as the deputy for Ifangni before his appointment to the Senate. Under Benin’s legislative framework, Vlavonou’s transition to the upper chamber was automatic due to his prior position as National Assembly President, ensuring continuity in parliamentary representation.
What comes next for François Silibi?
Silibi will serve out the remainder of Vlavonou’s term in the 10th legislature, which is set to conclude in February 2033. As the new deputy, he assumes responsibilities in a critical legislative period for Benin’s political and economic landscape.
His induction marks a significant moment in the country’s parliamentary evolution, as he brings his academic background in education and prior experience as a deputy’s alternate to the National Assembly floor.
