Benin former finance minister Romuald Wadagni officially took over power following a landslide presidential victory. Sworn in on Sunday in Cotonou, the 49-year-old economist pledged to govern with discipline, integrity and courage, declaring that leadership should serve the people rather than personal interests.
Wadagni, widely seen as the political heir to former President Patrice Talon, secured 94 percent of the vote in April’s election. His only challenger, Paul Hounkpe, suffered a crushing defeat before his party later aligned with the ruling bloc in parliament. Meanwhile, the main opposition party, The Democrats, failed to enter the race due to endorsement disputes and internal divisions, leaving the polls largely one-sided.
The new head of state begins a seven-year mandate after constitutional reforms extended Benin’s presidential term from five years. Despite the overwhelming electoral win, Wadagni now faces mounting pressure on several fronts. While Benin has posted steady economic growth over the past decade, many citizens continue to struggle with a widening wealth gap and rising living costs.
During his tenure as finance minister, Wadagni earned praise for tightening public spending and reducing the country’s budget deficit to three percent of GDP. Analysts credit him with helping stabilise Benin’s economy and attracting investor confidence.
Northern Benin has witnessed increasing attacks linked to jihadist groups operating across the Sahel, particularly fighters connected to Al-Qaeda’s regional affiliate, JNIM. At his inauguration, Wadagni struck a firm tone, warning that the government would not tolerate threats against national unity and security.
The president also inherits delicate regional diplomacy. Relations with neighbouring Niger and Burkina Faso have remained tense since military juntas seized power in both countries. In a possible sign of easing tensions, Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine attended the inauguration ceremony, drawing applause from guests at the Palais des Congres in Cotonou.
