François Silibi officially took his seat in the Bénin National Assembly this past Friday, July 10, 2026, following a formal induction ceremony. His appointment fills the vacancy left by Louis Vlavonou, who transitioned to the Senate after serving as a former President of the National Assembly—a position that grants automatic Senate membership.
From professor to parliamentarian: François Silibi’s new role
Born in 1982 in Ifangni—a town he shares with his predecessor—François Silibi brings a fresh academic perspective to the National Assembly. A dedicated English professor, he has now assumed the responsibilities of representing Ifangni’s constituency in the 10th legislature of the Bénin Parliament. His induction marks the beginning of a legislative journey that will extend until February 2033, aligning with the current parliamentary term.
Silibi’s parliamentary debut comes after serving as the deputy of Louis Vlavonou, the former President of the National Assembly. His transition into this role was formalized during a plenary session held at the Governor’s Palace in Porto-Novo, where the swearing-in ceremony took place immediately following legislative proceedings.
With Vlavonou’s departure to the Senate effective July 30, 2026, Silibi steps into a position that carries both the mandate and the expectations of his constituency. His appointment ensures continuity in representation while introducing new leadership within the legislative body.
What’s next for the new deputy?
As Silibi settles into his new responsibilities, all eyes will be on how he navigates the legislative landscape of Bénin. His academic background in English and prior role as a deputy provide a foundation, but his first major test will be shaping policies that address the needs of Ifangni and the broader national agenda. With the 2033 legislative term on the horizon, his decisions will play a crucial role in defining the future direction of the country’s governance.