Romuald Wadagni, a 49-year-old economist and former finance minister, has claimed a resounding victory in Benin’s presidential election, securing 94% of the vote against sole opponent Paul Hounkpe. The landslide win marks a decisive shift in the country’s political landscape, with Hounkpe’s party later forming a coalition with the ruling parliamentary faction.
The inauguration ceremony drew over 6,000 attendees, including high-ranking state officials, constitutional body members, foreign diplomats, and former presidents Nicéphore Soglo and Thomas Boni Yayi. A notable presence was Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, Niger’s prime minister, whose attendance signalled efforts to mend strained relations between the two nations after a period of diplomatic tension.
The amended 2025 Constitution extends presidential terms from five to seven years while maintaining a two-term limit. Wadagni, now Benin’s fifth president since democratic reforms began in 1990, took office before Dorothe Sossa, chief justice of the Constitutional Court, reaffirming his commitment to upholding the Constitution, preserving peace, and fostering national unity.
In his inaugural address, Wadagni declared, « Benin will not yield to fear or complacency. The government will take firm action against all forces threatening national security and cohesion. » His administration also aims to strengthen ties with neighbouring military-led states, particularly Niger and Burkina Faso.
Benin’s new president inherits a nation experiencing steady economic growth but grappling with persistent social inequalities and security challenges in the northern regions. Before entering politics, Wadagni worked at Deloitte, one of the world’s leading audit firms. Under former president Patrice Talon, he served as Minister of Economy and Finance from 2016 to 2021, later becoming prime minister in a role that underscored his influence over economic policy.
During his nearly decade-long tenure in finance leadership, Wadagni played a pivotal role in implementing fiscal reforms that slashed the budget deficit to around 3% of GDP, according to official figures. His administration now faces the dual challenge of sustaining economic momentum while addressing pressing social and security concerns.
