Wadagni sweeps to power with landslide victory in Benin election

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Romuald Wadagni has been elected President of Benin in a resounding landslide, securing more than 94 per cent of votes in the April 12, 2026 presidential election, according to provisional results released by the electoral commission.

The decisive victory marks a smooth transition of power in the West African nation, as Wadagni, the country’s long-serving finance minister, emerges as the clear successor to outgoing President Patrice Talon, who is stepping down after completing his constitutionally mandated tenure.

Announcing the results, electoral officials said the outcome was based on more than 90 per cent of votes counted, giving Wadagni an unassailable lead over his closest rival, opposition candidate Paul Hounkpe, who secured less than six per cent of the vote and conceded defeat even before final confirmation.

Voter turnout stood at about 58 per cent, reflecting moderate participation in an election widely seen as lacking strong opposition competition.

Wadagni, 49, had entered the race as the overwhelming favourite, backed by the ruling coalition and credited with overseeing a decade of economic reforms and fiscal stability under the Talon administration.

His victory was further eased by the absence of a formidable opposition challenge, as the main opposition party failed to field a candidate.

Wadagni now faces immediate challenges, including rising security threats in northern Benin linked to regional instability in the Sahel, as well as growing public expectations for improved living standards, access to healthcare, and social protection.

His administration is also expected to balance continuity with reform, as he seeks to build on the economic gains of the Talon era while addressing criticisms over inequality and governance.