Paul Hounkpè, Benin’s presidential candidate has acknowledged early trends showing a lead for his opponent state minister Romuald Wadagni.
In a statement issued Sunday in Cotonou, Hounkpè, who also leads the Force Cauris for an Emerging Benin party, said that “at the end of a decisive electoral day for the future of our nation, and in light of the major trends emerging from the gradual reporting of results, a lead appears to be forming in favour of the Wadagni–Talata duo.”
Acknowledgment “with responsibility”
“As a statesman committed to republican principles, respect for the popular vote and the stability of our country, I take note, with responsibility, of this dynamic as reflected in the initial observations,” he said.
Hounkpè also expressed “deep gratitude” to his supporters, praising their “strong, spontaneous and determined mobilisation” around his political platform, which he described as “one of the most solid, coherent and ambitious” for building a more just, inclusive and prosperous Benin.
Republican congratulations
“To State Minister Romuald Wadagni, I extend my republican congratulations. Democracy requires mutual respect and rising above partisan divides,” he added.
He further expressed the hope that, in governing, Wadagni would draw inspiration from key elements of his platform, particularly in areas such as social justice, economic inclusion, institutional reforms and national reconciliation, in order to effectively respond to the aspirations of the people.
“Beyond electoral competition, one requirement unites us all: to serve Benin and work tirelessly for the well-being of our fellow citizens,” Hounkpè stressed.
The presidential election, marked by the implementation of synchronised mandates on a seven-year cycle, attracted nearly 7.9 million voters across 17,462 polling stations. The race primarily pits majority candidate Romuald Wadagni against Paul Hounkpè, in a context marked by the absence of the main opposition party, Les Démocrates, whose candidate failed to secure the required endorsements.
Final results are expected by Wednesday.
AC/lb/as/APA