Benin’s moderate opposition party, the Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin (FCBE), has announced it will join the ruling coalition weeks after the country’s presidential election. The move comes ahead of president-elect Romuald Wadagni’s inauguration on May 24. FCBE was the only opposition party in the election, with its candidate, Paul Hounkpe, securing just 5.95% of the vote. Meanwhile, the main opposition party, the Democrats, was excluded from the election after failing to meet qualification requirements. FCBE leaders said their decision reflected the will of voters and a desire to contribute to national development after years of political losses. The development further strengthens the dominance of outgoing President Patrice Talon’s allies, who already control parliament and local governments.
Africanews
