Benin Opposition Candidate Barred from Presidential Election

Benin’s electoral commission has excluded the main opposition candidate from the upcoming presidential election, a move that could clear the path for the ruling coalition to maintain control. The National Autonomous Electoral Commission (CENA) announced the decision on Thursday, barring Renaud Agbodjo of the Democrats party from the April ballot.

CENA rejected Agbodjo’s candidacy due to insufficient parliamentary sponsors. All presidential hopefuls must be backed by at least 28 sitting lawmakers. The Democrats hold exactly 28 seats, but the commission declared one sponsorship invalid, leaving Agbodjo with only 27.

This development significantly benefits Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni, the candidate for President Patrice Talon’s ruling alliance. Talon, in power since 2016, is term-limited and not seeking re-election. Wadagni is widely regarded as one of his closest allies.

Opposition Candidate Plans Appeal

Renaud Agbodjo, a 43-year-old lawyer selected by the Democrats earlier this month, can appeal the decision before the final candidate list is published on October 31. The disputed sponsorship came from MP Michel Sodjinou, who had legally challenged the party’s selection of Agbodjo.

As detailed in the complete version, there are several key factors to consider.

The exclusion of the main opposition candidate echoes the 2021 presidential election, where most prominent rivals were also disqualified. In that vote, Talon secured over 86% of the vote, though the process was marred by violence in regions loyal to former president Thomas Boni Yayi.

Wadagni’s Ascent and Economic Record

Romuald Wadagni, a central figure in Talon’s government, has served as Finance Minister since 2016. A former Deloitte executive educated in France and the US, he is credited with advocating fiscal discipline. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he pushed for African debt restructuring rather than cancellation, a stance that won international investor favor.

Under the current administration, Benin has experienced robust economic growth, often exceeding six percent annually. While Talon is praised for this development, critics accuse him of growing autocracy. With the main opposition candidate now sidelined, the political landscape appears set for the ruling party to continue its hold on power in the West African nation.