Patrice Talon reflects on his presidency at final council meeting

The outgoing Bénin president Patrice Talon presided over his final Council of Ministers session on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at the Palais de la Marina. The historic meeting brought together the executive team in an emotionally charged atmosphere, marking the final government gathering before the scheduled transition of power on May 24.

In attendance was Romuald Wadagni, the president-elect, who participated in the session as a symbolic gesture of continuity. Talon used the opportunity to express his gratitude to the ministers for their dedication to implementing reforms since 2016. “I ask you to forgive any hardships my approach may have caused. It was driven solely by my determination to achieve meaningful progress,” he remarked.

The departing leader also reflected on his governance style, acknowledging that his firm oversight of public affairs sometimes led to tension. He emphasized that this approach was necessary to meet the ambitious goals set for Bénin’s administration and ensure sustained development.

Romuald Wadagni commits to maintaining government initiatives

Wadagni’s presence at the meeting underscored his intent to uphold the legacy of Talon’s administration. The president-elect, who previously served as Minister of Economy and Finance, praised the transformative efforts undertaken over the past decade. He reassured the outgoing team that key projects across multiple sectors would continue under his leadership. “The national transformation journey we’ve begun will proceed with the same commitment to excellence,” he stated.

This rare pre-inauguration participation in a Council of Ministers highlights the seamless transition planned between administrations. Talon, first elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2021, is set to conclude his second term in office as scheduled.

Transition date confirmed for May 24

The final ministerial session concluded with a warm farewell among the executive members at the Palais de la Marina. This gathering marked the formal end of Talon’s government activities before the handover to his successor.

The official inauguration ceremony for Romuald Wadagni is scheduled for May 24, 2026, at the Palais des Congrès in Cotonou. The event will follow the constitutional swearing-in process, solidifying the transition of leadership in Bénin’s democratic framework.