President-elect Romuald Wadagni officially assumes leadership of the Republic of Bénin on Sunday, May 24, 2026.

The newly installed president formally commenced his mandate as head of state, personally escorting his predecessor, Patrice Talon, to his vehicle following the solemn transfer of power.

The handover ceremony, characterized by its understated elegance, unfolded at the prestigious Palais de la République, also known as La Marina. Prior to the public proceedings, outgoing President Patrice Talon and his successor, Romuald Wadagni, engaged in a private, one-on-one discussion.

Romuald Wadagni’s oath of office was administered by the Constitutional Court during a significant event attended by numerous prominent figures from Bénin’s political landscape, alongside representatives from approximately fifteen international delegations.

During the ceremony, President Romuald Wadagni solemnly swore to « respect and defend the Constitution », further acknowledging his readiness to « suffer the rigors of the law in case of perjury ».