Romuald Wadagni officially took office as President of Bénin on Sunday, May 24, 2026.

In a solemn ceremony held at the Palais de la République (La Marina), the new leader was sworn in before the Constitutional Court. The event was attended by key political figures from Bénin and representatives from over a dozen foreign delegations.

During the inauguration, outgoing President Patrice Talon formally handed over power to his successor, accompanying him to his vehicle—a symbolic gesture marking the transition.

A private meeting between Talon and Wadagni preceded the swearing-in, reinforcing the peaceful nature of this leadership change. In his oath, President Wadagni pledged to “uphold and defend the Constitution,” acknowledging the legal consequences of any breach of that commitment.