Romuald Wadagni has been sworn in as President of Benin, formally taking over from his predecessor and former boss, Patrice Talon, in an inauguration ceremony held on Sunday.
Wadagni, a former finance minister and technocrat widely seen as continuing Talon’s economic policies, was elected on April 12 with 94% of the vote in a contest largely shaped by limited opposition participation.
His only challenger, Paul Hounkpe, was decisively defeated, while the main opposition party, the Democrats, was unable to participate due to internal divisions and endorsement challenges.
In his inaugural address, Wadagni pledged to govern with integrity and accountability, stressing that political power should never be treated as personal privilege.
“I will serve Benin with integrity, courage and commitment,” he said, adding that his administration would remain focused on national interest and service delivery.
Romuald Wadagni assumes office at a time when Benin has recorded steady economic growth over the past decade, although concerns persist over inequality and insecurity in the northern region linked to jihadist activity.
During his tenure as finance minister, he was credited with strengthening public finances and reducing the national deficit to around 3% of GDP.
Security is expected to be a major focus of his presidency, with the new leader pledging a firm response to armed groups operating in the north, including those linked to Al-Qaeda’s Sahel affiliate.
He also faces the diplomatic task of stabilising relations with neighbouring Niger and Burkina Faso, both under military rule and battling insurgent groups.
Signalling improving regional ties, Niger’s Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine attended the inauguration ceremony, drawing applause from attendees.
