The Economic Community of West African States has appointed former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo to head its Election Observation Mission (EOM) for the April 12, 2026 presidential election in Benin.
The mission, announced by Commission President Omar Alieu Touray, will be deployed from April 7 to 15, with a call for political actors to uphold peace, restraint, and democratic principles in line with regional protocols.
The election is unfolding in an unusual political context, with only two candidates approved: Romuald Wadagni, running alongside Vice President Mariam Chabi Talata under the ruling majority, and Paul Hounkpè of the FCBE, paired with Judicaël Hounwanou.
The absence of the main opposition party, Les Démocrates—which was excluded over endorsement requirements and has opted for neutrality—has narrowed the competitive field. Outgoing President Patrice Talon is not contesting, in line with constitutional term limits, as the country heads into a vote that will determine leadership through to 2033.
