Benin has entered a waiting period following the presidential election held on Sunday, April 12. Nearly 8 million voters were expected to cast their ballots to choose the successor to Patrice Talon, who is stepping down after two constitutionally mandated terms. Provisional results are expected to be released early this week.

A narrow duel for the succession

The presidential race came down to a showdown between two political figures, with the radical opposition excluded from the race:

1. Romuald Wadagni: Minister of Economy and Finance, he carries the label of "successor" designated by the outgoing president.
2. Paul Hounkpè: Representative of the FCBE (so-called moderate opposition) and former Minister of Culture.

Contextual note: The historic opposition party, The Democrats , was conspicuous by its absence, its candidacy having been invalidated by the Electoral Commission for lack of endorsements.

Voting process: Calm and well-managed logistics

Unlike previous legislative and local elections plagued by delays, the organization appears to have improved in efficiency. In Cotonou, polling stations opened on time, with the electoral commission fulfilling its commitments to ensure technical accuracy.

Voter turnout, a key issue in the election:

1. The turnout was deemed uneven in the economic capital (Cotonou).
2. The presidential camp is counting on strong mobilization in rural areas to compensate for the urban timidity.
3. For comparison, the turnout rate was 50% in the 2021 election.

An atmosphere somewhere between "continuity" and "frustration"

The atmosphere at the polling stations reflected the division of Beninese public opinion. While some voters enthusiastically supported stability and the continuation of reforms , others did not hide their bitterness at a political offering deemed too limited.

Some citizens have even admitted to having slipped a blank ballot into the ballot box, a symbolic gesture to protest against an election which they consider to lack competitiveness.