Finance Minister Expected to Win Benin Election Today

Former President Patrice Talon Steps Down After Two Five-Year Terms

Benin’s former President Patrice Talon has completed his two five-year terms in office and is stepping down. The country held a presidential election on Sunday, with nearly eight million eligible voters casting ballots to choose a successor.

Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni, 49, is expected to emerge victorious after being endorsed by the former president. Turnout will be crucial for Wadagni, as his campaign was affected by voter apathy. A polling station in Cotonou reported early arrivals, including Yvan Glidja, who stated that people must vote to ensure Wadagni’s win.

Talon, 67, addressed supporters in the district of Zongo before casting his ballot. He expressed optimism about Benin’s future and stated that he intended to “retire” from politics. However, he acknowledged that it is impossible to completely fade into the background after holding a high office.

Wadagni faces opposition from Paul Hounkpe, who has received parliamentary endorsements to get on the ballot. Hounkpe campaigned in various towns, including Bopa, where he served as mayor. The winner of the election will face challenges related to economic growth and security concerns, particularly in the north of the country.

During Talon’s decade in power, Benin experienced rapid economic growth, with its gross domestic product (GDP) doubling. However, a significant wealth gap remains, and insecurity is a pressing issue. The Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), an al-Qaeda affiliate, has been responsible for violence in the north of the country.

The provisional results are expected to be announced on Tuesday, following late vote counting in Cotonou.

Source: Al Jazeera