Sworn In With 94% Votes: Romuald Wadagni Takes Over As Benin President
Former Beninese Finance Minister, Romuald Wadagni, has officially assumed office as the new President of Benin, succeeding his former boss and outgoing leader, Patrice Talon.
The 49-year-old economist was inaugurated on Sunday in Cotonou after securing a landslide victory in the April 12 presidential election, where he polled 94 per cent of the total votes cast.
His sole opponent, Paul Hounkpe, suffered a heavy defeat, with his political party later joining Wadagni’s camp in parliament.
Benin’s major opposition platform, The Democrats, stayed away from the election after failing to obtain the required endorsements amid reported internal crises.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony, Wadagni promised to lead the country with transparency, accountability and courage.
“I will serve Benin with integrity, courage and commitment,” he declared.
“I will serve with the constant knowledge that power is never a personal privilege.”
Wadagni takes over leadership at a time when Benin continues to record economic growth but still faces insecurity in its northern region following repeated attacks linked to jihadist groups.
His inauguration also ushers in a new seven-year presidential tenure after a constitutional amendment extended the term from five years, although presidents are still restricted to a maximum of two terms.
During his 10 years as finance minister, Wadagni spearheaded reforms that reportedly cut Benin’s budget deficit to three per cent of GDP.
The new President also vowed to intensify the fight against insecurity, especially attacks blamed on the al-Qaeda-affiliated Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM).
“Benin will not give in to fear nor complacency. The government will be firm against all those who threaten our unity and security,” he said.
Wadagni is equally expected to strengthen diplomatic ties with neighbouring military-led countries including Niger and Burkina Faso.
In what appeared to be a sign of improving relations, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine attended the inauguration ceremony and received loud applause from guests at the event.
