Romuald Wadagni has been declared winner of Benin’s presidential election, securing a sweeping victory that cements the dominance of the ruling coalition.
Provisional results released by the electoral commission show that Wadagni polled over 94 per cent of the vote, with more than 90 per cent of ballots counted.
His closest rival, Paul Hounkpè, garnered less than six per cent and conceded defeat even before the official announcement of results.
Voter turnout stood at about 58 per cent, reflecting moderate participation in an election widely seen as lacking strong opposition.
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Wadagni, 49, is widely regarded as the political successor to outgoing President Patrice Talon, who is stepping down after completing his constitutionally allowed terms.
The election was held on April 12, just months after a failed coup attempt and amid growing security concerns in northern parts of the country linked to regional insurgency threats.
While the outcome reinforces political continuity, critics have raised concerns about the competitiveness of the process, citing restrictions that limited opposition participation.
Wadagni is expected to assume office with a mandate to sustain economic reforms while addressing security challenges and concerns over democratic space in the West African nation.
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