As the election campaign nears its end, Lobogo village in the Bopa commune is buzzing with activity. This is where Paul Hounkpè, candidate for the Forces Cauris pour un Bénin Émergent (FCBE), faces a crucial test of his political strength. This stronghold of the former mayor, divided between fervent support from his followers and criticism from the opposition, is central to the April 12th election.
The atmosphere in Lobogo is palpable, filled with dust and political slogans. In this village, where Paul Hounkpè grew up and established his political influence, every street seems to echo with the colors of the “Cauris.” As Sunday’s vote approaches, supporters of the moderate opposition candidate intensify their local rallies just before the electoral silence comes into effect on Friday at midnight.
“Son of the Soil” Faces Legitimacy Challenge
For the activists encountered on the ground, Paul Hounkpè is more than just a party leader; he is considered a “son of the soil.” Drawing on his experience as the former mayor of Bopa, he benefits from a solid base and a long-standing relationship with the local population. “He knows our realities; he has managed our problems here in Lobogo,” a young supporter wearing a green scarf states with conviction.
However, this campaign differs from previous ones. The FCBE approaches this election in a context marked by deep divisions within the opposition. Deprived of the support of the Les Démocrates party, whose candidacy was rejected, Paul Hounkpè must convince voters that he represents a credible alternative to the ruling party candidate, Romuald Wadagni.
The Shadow of Abstention and the Weight of Absentees
In Lobogo, the debate over the status of the “moderate opposition” is ever-present. Although FCBE activists are actively mobilized, some of the population observes this election with reservation, marked by the absence of major figures from the radical opposition. Voter turnout is a key concern.
“We will vote because Paul is one of us, but our hearts are not entirely in it because all the children of Benin are not competing,” confides a village elder, sitting under an iroko tree. The goal for candidate Hounkpè is clear: to transform his local popularity into a vote against the current governance, while countering calls for a boycott or indifference affecting part of the electorate. This election is a critical juncture for the FCBE and the Benin political landscape.
Campaign Finale Under Close Watch
Meanwhile, a few kilometers away, the campaign of Romuald Wadagni, the ruling party candidate, continues across the country with considerable resources, highlighting the achievements of the last ten years. Faced with this show of force, Paul Hounkpè is relying on an increased presence on the ground and direct contact with voters.
In Lobogo, meetings extend late into the night. On Friday at midnight, the loudspeakers will fall silent. For Paul Hounkpè, the Lobogo test will be decisive: a high score in his stronghold is essential to compete with Romuald Wadagni and to demonstrate that the FCBE remains the main structured opposition force in the country, despite the difficulties encountered.
On Sunday, the polling stations will open at 7 a.m. Lobogo will then be carefully scrutinized by observers, like a barometer of the opposition’s ability to survive at the ballot box. The future of Benin’s political opposition may well hinge on the election results from this key village.