Wadagni won more than 94% of the vote, according to provisional results announced on Monday by the country’s independent electoral commission.

Speaking on national television, Electoral Commission Head Sacca Lafia said the outcome was based on more than 90% of ballots counted, giving Wadagni an insurmountable lead. Voter turnout stood at about 58.8%, according to the commission.

Opposition candidate Paul Hounkpè of the Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin party conceded defeat last night. In a televised statement carried by local broadcasters, he offered congratulations to Wadagni and called for unity. “Democracy requires mutual respect and the ability to rise above partisan divides,” Hounkpè said.

Wadagni was backed by the governing coalition and endorsed by outgoing President Patrice Talon, who is stepping down after completing two five‑year terms. Hounkpè was the only opponent on the ballot after the Democrats’ Presidential hopeful failed to secure the minimum number of endorsements from elected officials required to stand, under Benin’s electoral rules.

Home to around 15 million people, Benin remains one of West Africa’s more stable democracies at a time when parts of the region have experienced repeated military takeovers. The new administration will be judged on whether it can preserve stability while addressing inequality and restoring security, particularly in vulnerable border areas.

–ChannelAfrica–