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| Portrait du nouveau président du Bénin, Romuald Wadagni. |
Romuald Wadagni, aged 49, achieved a decisive triumph in the presidential election held on April 12, securing an overwhelming 94% of the votes. His sole challenger, veteran politician Paul Hounkpe, experienced a significant defeat. Following the election, Hounkpe’s party subsequently entered a parliamentary coalition with the ruling party.
The inauguration ceremony drew an impressive attendance of over 6,000 guests, including high-ranking officials from state agencies, members of the constitutional body, various diplomats, and former presidents Nicéphore Soglo and Thomas Boni Yayi.
Notably, the presence of Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine at the inauguration was widely interpreted as a positive step towards de-escalating tensions and fostering improved relations between the two nations after a period of strained interactions.
In accordance with the constitutional amendments enacted in 2025, the presidential term has been extended from five to seven years, though the maximum limit remains fixed at two terms.
Romuald Wadagni now stands as the fifth individual to assume the presidency of Benin since this West African nation embarked on its democratic reform journey in 1990.
During his swearing-in, overseen by the Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court, Dorothe Sossa, President Wadagni solemnly pledged to uphold the Constitution, preserve peace, reinforce national unity, and diligently serve the Beninese populace with a profound sense of responsibility.
Following his investiture, he delivered a resolute statement: “Benin will succumb neither to apprehension nor to complacency. The government commits to acting decisively against all forces that jeopardize our national security and unity.”
Beyond critical security concerns, the new administration is also expected to prioritize enhancing diplomatic ties with neighboring military-led states, specifically Niger and Burkina Faso.
The incoming president of Benin assumes office amidst a backdrop of several years of consistent economic expansion. However, the country continues to grapple with persistent social inequalities and escalating security threats, particularly in its northern regions.
Prior to his foray into the political arena, Mr. Wadagni held a distinguished position at Deloitte, one of the world’s foremost auditing firms.
Upon the ascension of former President Patrice Talon in 2016, Wadagni was appointed Minister of Economy and Finance. He was subsequently reconfirmed in this role in 2021 and later advanced to the position of Senior Minister.
Throughout his nearly ten-year tenure leading the financial sector, Wadagni was widely recognized as a pivotal figure in driving Benin’s economic reforms. The government has credited the fiscal policies implemented under his stewardship as Minister of Economy and Finance with successfully reducing the budget deficit to approximately 3% of the GDP.