Benin to hold presidential election amidst worsening security concerns

Benin Holds Presidential Election Amid Economic and Security Challenges

Voting is underway in Benin’s presidential election, with long-serving Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni expected to win the election. Polls opened at 7am (06:00 GMT) on Sunday and will close at 4pm (15:00 GMT). Over 7.9 million people are registered to vote, including 62,000 in the diaspora.

Wadagni, a 49-year-old former Deloitte executive, is being challenged by Paul Hounkpe, an opposition figure and former culture minister. Wadagni has received backing from lawmakers of the two main ruling coalition parties and the outgoing president, Patrice Talon. Hounkpe’s campaign has been low-key.

Talon, 67, is barred from running again after two terms in office. He will step down with a legacy of mixed results, including economic growth and a clampdown on the opposition. The new president will face major challenges, including a significant gap between the poor and well-off, with an estimated poverty rate of over 30 percent.

Benin’s economic growth is also dependent on improving security and stabilizing the country. The country has been affected by armed fighters from Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), an al-Qaeda affiliate in the central Sahel region.

Wadagni has promised to address issues such as expanding access to potable water and guaranteeing emergency healthcare regardless of ability to pay. Hounkpe has noted that the situation for many Beninese people has not improved under previous leaders and has promised to bring about change.

Provisional results are expected on Tuesday. Many voters have expressed skepticism about the election, with some saying they will not vote due to controversies surrounding accreditation for candidates. Others have urged Wadagni to deliver on his platform, particularly in addressing security concerns.

Source: Al Jazeera