Patrice Talon, outgoing President of the Bénin, presided over his final Council of Ministers meeting at the Palais de la Marina on 13 May 2026, just days before the scheduled handover of power. The historic session brought together the entire executive team, including the newly elected president, Romuald Wadagni, in a moment marking the conclusion of an era.

Emotions ran high during the deliberations, with Talon taking the opportunity to express his heartfelt appreciation to the ministers who had worked tirelessly on critical reforms since 2016. « I ask you to forgive any hardships I may have caused with my approach. My intent was always to push boundaries and achieve the best possible outcomes for our nation », he reflected.

The departing leader also addressed his governance style, acknowledging that his unwavering commitment to national progress sometimes led to firm decisions. He emphasized that such resolve was essential to driving the Bénin’s administrative and developmental agenda forward.

Wadagni pledges continuity amid new leadership

Romuald Wadagni’s presence at the meeting underscored the transition’s significance. The president-elect, who previously served as Minister of Economy and Finance, praised Talon’s decade-long contributions. He reassured the assembled officials that key initiatives across multiple sectors would remain a priority under his administration. « The transformative work already underway will continue with the same dedication to excellence », he stated.

This unprecedented participation of a president-elect in a sitting government’s final council reflects the smooth handover process planned for 24 May 2026—the date marking the end of Talon’s second term, following his initial election in 2016 and re-election in 2021.

A historic shift at the Palais de la Marina

The meeting concluded with a warm farewell among the executive team, signifying the end of an administration that had steered the country through pivotal reforms. The official transition ceremony between Talon and Wadagni is set to take place at the Palais des Congrès de Cotonou, where the president-elect will be sworn in, adhering to the constitutional timeline for his inauguration.