Benin’s Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni has secured a decisive presidential victory, winning more than 94% of the vote. Handpicked by outgoing President Patrice Talon, Wadagni’s victory came after the main opposition was largely sidelined by strict endorsement rules, leaving him to face just one challenger. The limited competition has raised concerns about the depth of democratic choice in the small West African nation. While the outcome was widely seen as a foregone conclusion, the 58.75% turnout—higher than recent elections—reflects a nation eager for the economic stability Wadagni promises. However, the honeymoon will be short; the new president must immediately tackle rising jihadist threats and persistent poverty, particularly in the north.
BBC
