Bénin’s newly established legislative body, the Senate, has officially begun its operations. This institution is composed of 25 parliamentarians who are not directly elected by the populace but are instead appointed by the Head of State or hold their positions as ex-officio members, such as former presidents.
The creation of this significant institution followed a constitutional revision that was approved in November 2025. Its primary objective is to introduce a new mechanism for the regulation of the nation’s political landscape.
The formal inauguration ceremony was presided over by the oldest member of the Senate, 89-year-old Élisabeth Pognon. Notably, Madame Pognon holds the distinction of being the first woman to have served as president of the Constitutional Court.
Addressing her fellow senators, she articulated, “You and I bear the profound privilege of being the pioneering members of this novel institution.”
She further urged the parliamentarians to cultivate the Senate into “an instrument fostering trust, ensuring stability, and strengthening the foundation of the State.”
Former President Patrice Talon, who served from 2016 to 2026, also shared his perspective on this historic moment. He stated, “I am immensely proud to belong to this generation of leaders dedicated to offering their utmost for our collective progress… Wherever an opportunity to serve arises, we must seize it.”
Among other distinguished former Heads of State seated alongside him is Thomas Boni Yayi, who led the nation from 2006 to 2016.
Paul Hounkpè, who was the sole opposition candidate in the most recent presidential election, is also a member of the newly formed Senate.
Emphasizing a collective vision, Hounkpè conveyed, “The paramount goal is national unity, ensuring peace and the harmonious development of our beloved country.”
It is worth noting that the constitutional revision that led to the Senate’s establishment also included an amendment extending the presidential term length from five to seven years.
The most recent election for the Head of State, held in April, saw Romuald Wadagni emerge victorious. Wadagni, formerly the Minister of Economy, is widely regarded as the successor to Patrice Talon.