By Tgnews Reporter
Benin’s National Assembly voted overwhelmingly on Saturday to amend the country’s constitution, extending the presidential term from five to seven years while preserving the two-term limit and establishing a new upper house of parliament known as the Senate.
The reform, passed with 90 votes in favor and 19 against, marks a significant restructuring of Benin’s political framework ahead of the April 2026 presidential election. President Patrice Talon, who has served two consecutive five-year terms since 2016, is constitutionally barred from seeking re-election and is set to step down next year after a decade in office.
Supporters of the amendment argue that a longer term will provide greater stability and allow elected leaders to implement long-term development policies without the pressure of frequent elections.
“Seven years gives a president the breathing room to deliver on infrastructure, education, and economic reforms that require sustained effort,” said National Assembly President Louis Vlavonou following the vote.
The creation of a Senate, to be composed of at least 25 members—including appointees named by the head of state and ex-officio seats for former presidents—is intended to strengthen legislative oversight and regional representation.
Critics, however, warn that presidential appointments to the upper chamber could concentrate power and undermine democratic checks.
Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni, widely regarded as President Talon’s preferred successor, is the frontrunner in the upcoming presidential race. Political observers note that Wadagni’s strong performance in managing public finances and leading economic recovery efforts post-COVID has bolstered his candidacy.
Opposition lawmakers who voted against the bill expressed concerns over timing and intent. “Extending the term now, just months before an election, raises questions about political motives,” said MP Guy Mitokpe of the Democrats party. “We support institutional reform, but not when it risks being tailored to benefit a specific political camp.”
Benin has been praised regionally for its democratic stability since the early 1990s, but recent years have seen growing criticism of Talon’s administration over restrictions on opposition activities and media freedom. The constitutional changes come amid calls from civil society for broader electoral reforms, including greater transparency in campaign financing.
The amended constitution will take effect immediately upon promulgation by President Talon, who has not yet publicly commented on the vote. Political analysts predict the new seven-year term will apply to the incoming president elected in April 2026.
As Benin prepares for a pivotal transition, all eyes are on whether the extended mandate and bicameral legislature will deepen democratic governance—or tilt the balance further toward executive dominance.
