Benin's Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni wins presidency with over 94% of the vote
via The Namibian2 min read
Benin's Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni has won the presidency, securing more than 94% of the vote based on 90% of ballots counted, according to provisional results. The electoral commission stated this outcome is "irreversible." Wadagni, 49, was the favored candidate after the main opposition party, the Democrats, failed to get their candidate on the ballot. Paul Hounkp猫, the sole challenger, conceded the election earlier. Wadagni was chosen by outgoing leader Patrice Talon, who was barred from running for a third term. Hounkp猫 congratulated Wadagni, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and rising above partisan divides in a democracy. Presidential candidates in Benin must secure formal endorsements from lawmakers to run. Voter turnout across the country was 58.75%. The new president will face challenges including worsening insecurity and chronic poverty, particularly in the country's north. Benin, with a population of 15 million, is considered one of West Africa's more stable democracies, a region that has experienced several military coups recently.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
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