President-elect Romuald Wadagni is calling his Beninese compatriots to national unity as his party vows to spearhead sweeping political reforms.
Declared the winner of the April 12 presidential vote with 94.05% of the ballot by the National Autonomous Electoral Commission (CENA), Wadagni signaled his intent to use this mandate as a foundation for “national consensus” amid a volatile international climate.
In a statement released via social media, he commended the “professionalism” of the electoral authorities, which he noted allowed citizens to fulfill their civic duties “with fervor, conviviality, and discipline.”
Accepting the results “with humility,” Wadagni stated that his election landslide reflected an urgent “need for national unity,” a priority he pledged to uphold throughout his tenure.
He also paid tribute to his challenger, Paul Hounkpè, praising his “statesmanlike conduct” after Hounkpè conceded and offered his congratulations.
Wadagni confirmed his commitment to maintaining the policy continuity of outgoing President Patrice Talon, aiming to build a “modern Benin” focused on universal well-being. Under the constitutional revision adopted in November 2025, Wadagni will serve a seven-year term.
Seasoned technocrat at the helm
At 49, Romuald Wadagni brings a high-caliber financial background to the presidency. A dual-certified public accountant (France and the United States), he spent 17 years at the international firm Deloitte, with a career spanning Paris, Lyon, Boston, New York, and Lubumbashi.
First appointed Minister of Economy and Finances in April 2016, and later elevated to the rank of Minister of State in May 2021, Wadagni established himself as the chief architect of Benin’s economic strategy. He is widely recognised for his mastery of global finance and his international experience.
Opposition reaction: Congratulations with provisos
Meanwhile, the opposition party Les Démocrates—which did not participate in the polls after failing to secure the necessary parliamentary support—offered its “republican congratulations” while laying out a series of demands.
In a statement “taking note” of the results, the party urged a mandate focused on national unity, social justice, and the protection of fundamental rights. Their list of requirements for political reconciliation includes: the release of political detainees, the return of political exiles, the resumption of broad-based political dialogue, the restoration of individual liberties and an “inclusive democratic process.”
The party expressed its readiness for “constructive dialogue” and indicated it would continue to propose “relevant” policy alternatives.
AC/Sf/lb/as/APA