One week after taking office, President Romuald Wadagni convened his first circle at the Presidential Palace. Balancing technical expertise, security imperatives, and symbolic gestures, the new Head of State is charting a course for a seven-year term rooted in rigor and inclusivity.

Sworn in on May 24, 2026, President Romuald Wadagni has swiftly assembled a team of technocrats and senior officials. Within eight days, a series of decrees formalized the structure of a presidential cabinet designed to tackle the challenges of the coming seven years. This carefully crafted framework reflects a delicate balance: maintaining technical excellence while fortifying the security apparatus around the presidency. The appointments—combining seasoned professionals and historically significant figures—underscore a governance approach that values both methodical execution and unifying symbols.

Captain Elvire Toupé: Breaking barriers in Bénin’s military

The appointment of Captain Elvire Toupé as aide-de-camp marks a historic milestone for Bénin. As the first woman to hold this pivotal role since independence in 1960, she shatters a long-standing glass ceiling within the Bénin Armed Forces (FAB).

The aide-de-camp is far from a ceremonial position; it is the president’s constant shadow, entrusted with managing security agendas, access control, and the coordination of the president’s close protection detail around the clock. Beyond the symbolic resonance with the legendary Amazons, Captain Toupé’s appointment highlights the rising prominence of women in sovereign roles within Bénin’s military hierarchy, paving the way for greater gender representation in high-stakes positions.

General Bertin Bada: Strengthening national security through air power

By decree N° 2026-324 of May 28, 2026, General Bertin Bada has been appointed as the President’s Advisor on Defense and Security. This role demands a deep understanding of geopolitical challenges and regional threats.

By selecting the former Military Cabinet Chief of his predecessor, President Wadagni ensures continuity with a strategic vision attuned to contemporary threats and surveillance systems. General Bada’s responsibilities include coordinating national defense policies and guiding presidential decisions on territorial protection. His appointment reaffirms that security remains a cornerstone of the current administration.

Fiacre Vidjingninou: Crafting the narrative of a new presidency

Fiacre Vidjingninou’s appointment as Director of Presidential Communication, formalized by decree N° 2026-325 on May 28, 2026, positions him as the official voice of the executive branch.

Renowned for his mastery of both national and international media landscapes, Vidjingninou will shape the public image of the Wadagni presidency. In an era marked by digital transformation and the demand for greater transparency, his role involves developing dynamic information strategies, managing press relations, and ensuring cohesive government communication. The goal is to foster trust between the presidency and the Bénin people.

General Djimon Dieudonné Tévoèdjrè: Ensuring stability in presidential security

Decree N° 2026-323 of May 28, 2026, reappoints General Djimon Dieudonné Tévoèdjrè as Commander of the Republican Guard. This decision reflects President Wadagni’s unwavering confidence in the General’s leadership.

Tasked with protecting the president, senior officials, and republican institutions, General Tévoèdjrè embodies stability within the executive branch. His mission demands constant vigilance, rigorous discipline, and unwavering loyalty. Under his command, the Republican Guard will continue modernizing its intervention tactics and securing sensitive sites around the Head of State.

Gaston Dossouhoui and Modeste T. Kérékou: Bridging politics and governance

Appointed as Special Advisors on Political Affairs by decree N° 2026-328 on May 28, 2026, Gaston Dossouhoui and Modeste Tihounté Kérékou bring extensive experience in navigating Bénin’s political terrain.

Their role is to act as liaisons between the presidency and political forces, civil society, and local governments. In a term poised to be eventful, this duo will work to ease tensions, consolidate the president’s political base, and ensure that reforms align with the aspirations of the Bénin people.

Colonel Major Chahounka: The strategic link between presidency and military

Colonel Major Mètohokan Gabin Abel Chahounka takes charge of the Presidential Military Cabinet under decree N° 2026-322 of May 28, 2026. This key role ensures seamless communication between the Head of State—Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces—and the Ministry of Defense and General Staff.

Colonel Chahounka will oversee the efficient transmission of presidential directives, monitor ongoing operations, and manage administrative matters concerning military personnel attached to the presidency. His technical expertise and administrative rigor will be instrumental in enhancing the operational effectiveness and responsiveness of the state’s security apparatus.