Benin holds presidential election amid deteriorating security situation

Author: aljazeera.comPublished on: April 12, 2026Country: Benin

Politics

Benin holds presidential election amid deteriorating security situation

Voting is underway in Benin's presidential election, with long-serving Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni expected to win, backed by outgoing President Patrice Talon. Wadagni faces opposition from Paul Hounkpe, a former culture minister whose campaign has been low-key. Talon, barred from running again after two terms, leaves behind a mixed legacy of economic growth at 7% and a crackdown on opposition.

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