In Benin, Romuald Wadagni is the new President of the Republic. On Monday 13 April 2026, opposition candidate Paul Hounkpè conceded defeat in the presidential election. He offered his “congratulations” to his sole opponent, the ruling party’s candidate Romuald Wadagni, the clear favourite in the election, a position confirmed by the final vote count.
Romuald Wadagni has ascended to the presidency at the age of 50. His victory was solidified by a strategy focused on transforming agro-industry, tourism, and services into key drivers of inclusive, sustained, and sustainable economic growth. This was coupled with a commitment to enhancing national and local governance, alongside significant investment in human capital and infrastructure. His opponent, Paul Hounkpè, conceded the election on Monday, April 12th, and extended his « republican congratulations. » This action not only honors the democratic process on the continent but also reinforces Benin’s position as a genuine model for political transition in Africa.
To Minister of State Romuald Wadagni, I extend my republican congratulations. Democracy requires mutual respect and rising above partisan divisions.
Paul Hounkpè, Presidential candidate
The Beninese opposition figure has demonstrated an act of responsibility, offering a striking contrast to the tensions surrounding the end of President Patrice Talon’s term. Now, the focus shifts to Romuald Wadagni, who is tasked with implementing the plan to consolidate the progress made under the Government Action Programme (2016–2021). Wadagni must also ensure the continuity of the development agenda for a government whose economic direction he helped to define—a challenging republican undertaking that Paul Hounkpè was quick to acknowledge.
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 it emerges from the initial observations. I hope that, in the conduct of public affairs, he will draw on certain key elements of our programme, particularly in terms of social justice, economic inclusion, institutional reforms and national reconciliation, in order to respond accurately and effectively to the deep aspirations of our people.
Paul Hounkpè, Presidential candidate
As Benin projects itself among the three fastest-growing economies in Africa, with a growth rate of 7.5% in 2024, expected to reach 6.4% in 2025 and 6.8% in 2026, Romuald Wadagni will need to maintain the momentum in agricultural production, notably cotton, intensify industrial output linked to the activities of the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ), and continue major infrastructure projects in line with the Benin Vision 2025 Alafia. Calm governance, reinforced by the opposition’s republican stance, is
