Former Beninese President Thomas Boni Yayi has announced that he will take up his constitutional seat in the newly created Senate, reversing his earlier decision to boycott the institution.
Boni Yayi said the changing political landscape, including what he described as limited opportunities for political dialogue, convinced him that the Senate could serve as a platform to promote consultation and represent the concerns of the Beninese people.
The Senate was created under the constitutional reforms adopted in December 2025 as the upper chamber of Benin’s new bicameral Parliament.
While reiterating his earlier reservations about the reform, Boni Yayi said he would now exercise his constitutional right to serve as a senator and work with fellow members to promote democracy, national unity, peace and respect for human rights.
He also urged Beninese citizens to continue supporting efforts to strengthen justice, security and political dialogue in the country.
