Benin has elected Romuald Wadagni, the country’s long-serving Minister of Economy and Finance, as its new president following the presidential election held on Sunday, 12 April 2026. Preliminary results released by the Autonomous National Electoral Commission on 13 April indicate Wadagni secured an overwhelming 94% of the vote. This victory, if confirmed by the Constitutional Court, will see him succeed outgoing President Patrice Talon.

The election recorded a significant turnout of approximately 58.75%, with more than 4.2 million ballots cast in favor of the winning ticket. Wadagni, who is 49 years old, ran as the candidate for the ruling coalition, garnering support from the Progressive Union for Renewal (UPR) and the Republican Bloc (BR). His running mate, Mariam Chabi Talata Zimé Yerima, is poised to continue in her role as Vice-President, having made history in 2021 as Benin’s first elected female Vice-President and signalling continuity for the current administration.

Wadagni has held the position of Minister of Economy and Finance since April 2016, playing a pivotal role in Benin’s economic reform agenda and efforts to attract foreign investment throughout President Talon’s tenure. An alumnus of prestigious institutions such as Harvard University and the University of Grenoble, his background in finance has been central to the nation's economic strategies.

During his campaign, Wadagni pledged to prioritize strengthening security in response to regional insurgencies and to expand healthcare access for citizens. Addressing his supporters after the vote, he affirmed his commitment to transparent governance, stating, “I had the honour of managing one of your most precious assets: your money. I intend to govern with the same seriousness and dedication.” He further indicated plans to continue existing development programmes while making inclusive growth a paramount priority.

The election saw Paul Hounkpè, a 56-year-old former Culture Minister and candidate for the Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin (FCBE), challenge Wadagni. Hounkpè secured 5.95% of the vote and promptly conceded defeat following the announcement of preliminary figures, extending his “republican congratulations” and advocating for national unity. Romuald Wadagni is expected to officially take office once the electoral process is fully completed by the Constitutional Court, marking the end of President Talon's two constitutional terms.