Benin’s Economy and Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni has been declared the winner of the presidential election, securing an overwhelming mandate according to provisional results released by the national electoral commission.

The announcement followed a nationwide vote, positioning Wadagni to succeed outgoing President Patrice Talon, who is completing his constitutionally mandated second term in office.

With more than 90% of ballots counted, Wadagni secured 94.05% of the vote, while his main challenger Paul Hounkpè received 5.95%.

The head of the electoral commission described the outcome as mathematically irreversible, pending formal validation by the Constitutional Court, with voter turnout recorded at 58.75%.

At 49, Wadagni ran as the candidate of the ruling coalition and is widely seen as representing continuity, having played a central role in shaping the country’s economic reforms since 2016.

During his campaign, he outlined plans to diversify the economy, focusing on industrial development, digital transformation, and stronger regional integration across West Africa.

Despite a decade of infrastructure expansion and economic growth under Talon, the incoming administration faces key challenges, including rising security threats in the north, concerns over political freedoms, and persistent economic inequality.

Wadagni is expected to assume office for a seven-year term, with the next presidential election scheduled for 2033, following formal certification of the results.