cotonou holds its breath in calm anticipation. since 7:00 am this morning, beninese voters have been heading to the polls for the first round of the 2026 presidential election. this crucial vote marks the end of the patrice talon era and shapes the future of benin.
the country presents an image of serenity on this sunday, april 12, 2026. across the national territory, the 17,764 polling stations opened their doors at dawn to welcome citizens. orderly queues formed outside voting centers in cotonou, porto-novo, parakou, and even in the most remote areas of the country.
an election under the banner of peace
in contrast to the tensions observed during some past elections, the morning is unfolding without major hitches. the independent national electoral commission (cena) has confirmed that electoral materials were delivered on time to almost all polling stations.
“i came to vote very early to fulfill my civic duty. everything is going well, the electoral agents are in place, and the atmosphere is fraternal,” says marc, a voter encountered in the fifadji district.
the key figures of the day
the logistical deployment is impressive, reflecting the importance of this transition:
- 7,986,984: the number of citizens registered on the computerized electoral roll (lei).
- 17,764: the total number of polling stations.
- 07:00 am: opening time of the polling stations (subject to local exceptions).
the stakes: life after talon
this election is being closely watched by the international community. after ten years at the head of the country, outgoing president patrice talon, in accordance with the constitution, is not running for re-election. this passing of the baton is seen as a major step for the democratic consolidation of benin.
the main contest of this election pits the presidential movement’s ticket, led by romuald wadagni, against that of the moderate opposition, paul hounkpè. for analysts, the major challenge of this vote remains the participation rate, a true barometer of popular support for this transition process.
security reinforced
a significant security apparatus has been deployed to ensure the tranquility of operations. the defense and security forces are vigilant, while remaining discreet, to allow beninese citizens to choose their future president “in peace and harmony,” as the various religious and civil society leaders called for on the eve of the election.
the first counts are expected to begin as soon as the polls close. the first overall trends are expected within the next 48 hours.
stay connected to our site to follow the evolution of the results and the highlights of this election day live.
