Romuald Wadagni Sworn In As Benin President After Landslide Election Win

Romuald Wadagni Sworn In as Benin President After Landslide Election Win Romuald Wadagni has officially been sworn in as the new president of Benin, following a decisive victory in the country’s April 12 presidential election. The former finance minister took the oath of office in the capital city, Cotonou, on Sunday, succeeding outgoing president Patrice Talon, who stepped down after serving two constitutional terms. Wadagni, 49, secured more than 94 percent of the vote in the April election, defeating opposition candidate Paul Hounkpe in what observers described as a landslide victory. The election came amid heightened political tensions and security concerns in the West African nation following a failed coup attempt months earlier. During his inauguration speech, Wadagni promised to lead with “integrity, courage and commitment,” while emphasizing that political power should never become “a personal privilege.” He also pledged to improve living standards, expand access to basic services, create jobs, and strengthen national security as Benin faces increasing threats from jihadist violence spilling over from the Sahel region.Before becoming president, Wadagni served for nearly a decade as Benin’s finance minister, where he earned a reputation for overseeing fiscal reforms and helping stabilize the country’s economy. Analysts expect his administration to continue many of Talon’s economic policies while attempting to address growing concerns about inequality and democratic freedoms.The inauguration also marked the beginning of Benin’s new seven-year presidential term system introduced through a constitutional amendment passed last year. Despite the longer tenure, presidents remain limited to two terms in office.