Romuald Wadagni, aged 49, secured a landslide victory with 94% of the vote in the April 12 presidential election, leaving his sole opponent, politician Paul Hounkpe, with a decisive defeat. The political party of Hounkpe later formed a coalition with the ruling party in Parliament, signaling a shift in the nation’s political landscape.

Over 6,000 guests attended the inauguration ceremony, including high-ranking officials from state agencies, members of the constitutional body, diplomats, and former Presidents Nicéphore Soglo and Thomas Boni Yayi. Notably, the presence of Niger’s Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine was seen as a gesture of reconciliation, easing long-standing tensions between the two neighboring nations.

Constitutional reforms and national priorities

Under the amended 2025 Constitution, the presidential term will extend from five to seven years, though the two-term limit remains unchanged. Wadagni, who now serves as the fifth president of Benin since the democratic transition began in 1990, took office with a solemn pledge.

Speaking before Dorothe Sossa, Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court, Wadagni vowed to uphold the Constitution, safeguard peace, strengthen national unity, and serve the people of Benin with unwavering dedication. He declared, « Benin will neither yield to fear nor complacency. The government will act decisively against all forces threatening national security and cohesion. »

Regional diplomacy and economic challenges

The new administration faces pressing priorities, including enhancing security in northern regions and fostering stronger ties with neighboring countries governed by military regimes, such as Niger and Burkina Faso.

Benin’s economic growth has been robust in recent years, yet persistent social inequalities and security threats in the north demand urgent attention. Wadagni brings extensive financial expertise to his role, having previously served as Minister of Economy and Finance under former President Patrice Talon and later as Principal Minister.

Before entering politics, Wadagni worked at Deloitte, where his leadership in economic reforms became a cornerstone of Benin’s fiscal policies. Under his tenure, the government achieved a significant reduction in the budget deficit, bringing it to approximately 3% of GDP.