Benin’s constitutional overhaul: key reforms and political implications

A new constitution was formally adopted in Benin on November 1st, following an expedited parliamentary process. This significant legal update introduces a “presidential ticket” system, where the President of the Republic and a Vice-President are elected concurrently. This election requires an absolute majority of votes, typically achieved over two rounds.

Among its provisions, the revised constitutional framework formally abolishes the death penalty, establishes a dedicated Court of Accounts, and enshrines the principle of affirmative action to enhance female representation in electoral processes.

Furthermore, the new legislation imposes a three-term limit on parliamentary mandates for deputies. It also provides a mechanism for deputies who were replaced by their alternates to reclaim their positions.

The existing two-consecutive-term limit for the President of the Republic, a cornerstone of the 1990 constitution, has been significantly strengthened. The revised text now stipulates that no individual may serve more than two presidential terms throughout their lifetime, reinforcing political stability and democratic principles.

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