2026 municipal and legislative elections in Benin: political parties in touch with the electorate
The National Autonomous Electoral Commission (CENA) officially launched, on Thursday, December 25, 2025, the campaign for the legislative and municipal elections planned in Benin on January 11, 2026.
The campaign, which began on December 26, 2025 at midnight, will run until January 9, 2026, in accordance with the provisions of Benin’s Electoral Code.
Thus, for two weeks, the political parties contesting this electoral race will be out in the field, vying for the electorate.
The president of CENA, Sacca Lafia, in a solemn message addressed to political actors and citizens, called for a competition based on the debate of ideas, respect for the rules, and the preservation of peace, noting that these elections will allow the people to choose their representatives at the national and local levels.
He emphasized the importance for political parties and their militants to conduct a campaign in a spirit of humility and persuasion, while banning violence, provocations, and hate speech.
The president of CENA also addressed the media, inviting them to disseminate accurate, balanced, and peaceful information, in strict adherence to professional ethics.
He expressed his confidence in the defense and security forces to ensure the protection of people and the proper conduct of the electoral process throughout the campaign period.
Finally, Sacca Lafia praised the commitment of CENA agents and all involved partners, describing their contribution as an indispensable pillar for the conduct of these elections. The campaign is thus officially opened, marking an important milestone in the electoral calendar that will lead the Beninese to the polls at the dawn of the new year.
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