Benin opposition presidential candidate concedes defeat to Wadagni

Opposition candidate Paul Hounkpe conceded defeat to Romuald Wadagni in Benin's presidential election. Wadagni, endorsed by outgoing leader Patrice Talon, was the overwhelming favorite after overseeing a decade of growth as finance minister. Hounkpe offered republican congratulations to Wadagni, acknowledging a clear lead for his rival. Voter turnout in the capital Porto-Novo was low, ranging from 20 to 40 percent at some polling stations.