The newly formed upper house of Bénin’s Parliament convened its first session on August 6, where legislators elected former President Patrice Talon to lead the Senate for the next five-year term (2026–2031).

During the proceedings at the Governor’s Palace in Porto-Novo, the capital, Talon secured 24 votes in favor, with no opposition and just one abstention. Now 68, he previously served as Bénin’s head of state from 2016 to 2026, bringing decades of political experience to his new role.

The Senate’s executive leadership was finalized with Louis Vlavonou, a former National Assembly president, elected as Vice President. Alassane Seidou, a former Interior Minister, was named Rapporteur, while Adidjatou Mathys was appointed Deputy Rapporteur. Their mandates align with the chamber’s five-year term, running parallel to Talon’s leadership.

Bénin’s inaugural Senators took their seats on July 30 in Porto-Novo, marking a pivotal step toward operationalizing the new bicameral system. This transition follows the December 17, 2025 constitutional amendment, which reinstated the Senate after decades as a unicameral legislature.

The Senate’s core responsibilities include safeguarding national unity, reinforcing state institutions, and promoting political stability, democracy, and peace. By ensuring adherence to political truce agreements, the chamber aims to foster a more structured and resilient governance framework in Bénin.

By Boureima Amadou — Reporter