Bénin: Romuald Wadagni sworn in with bold reforms agenda

The Republic of Bénin has ushered in a new era under President Romuald Wadagni, who secured an overwhelming mandate with 94% of the vote in the April 12 presidential election. His sole challenger, politician Paul Hounkpe, conceded defeat, and Hounkpe’s party later joined the ruling coalition in Parliament.

The inauguration ceremony, attended by over 6,000 dignitaries—including state officials, constitutional body members, diplomats, and former Presidents Nicéphore Soglo and Thomas Boni Yayi—marked a historic moment for the country. Notably, the presence of Niger’s Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine signaled a thaw in bilateral relations after a period of strained ties.

Constitutional reforms and national commitments

Following the 2025 constitutional amendment, presidential terms will extend from five to seven years, though a two-term limit remains in place. Addressing the nation during his swearing-in, before Chief Justice Dorothe Sossa of the Constitutional Court, President Wadagni pledged to uphold the Constitution, preserve peace, and strengthen national unity. He emphasized accountability, declaring, « The Bénin will neither yield to fear nor complacency. The government will take decisive action against all forces threatening national security and cohesion. »

The new administration also prioritizes regional diplomacy, seeking to improve relations with neighboring military-led states such as the Niger and Burkina Faso.

Economic legacy and future priorities

President Wadagni, 49, ascends to power amid decades of sustained economic growth, yet faces persistent challenges: social inequality and security threats in the northern regions. Prior to entering politics, he worked at Deloitte, one of the world’s leading audit firms.

After Patrice Talon assumed the presidency in 2016, Wadagni was appointed Minister of Economy and Finance, a role he held until 2021 before transitioning to Principal Minister. Over nearly a decade steering the nation’s financial sector, he became a key architect of Bénin’s economic reforms. Under his leadership, fiscal policies reportedly slashed the budget deficit to around 3% of GDP.