Benin: Romuald Wadagni ensures the fullness of his role as president, says Wilfried Houngbédji

Speaking during his traditional meeting with the press on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, the government spokesperson, Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji, provided a firm outlook on the management of state affairs.

In response to speculation about a possible power-sharing between the current head of state and his predecessor, Patrice Talon, the spokesperson was unequivocal: Romuald Wadagni fully assumes his executive functions at the helm of the country.

“No Mentorship or Guardianship” at the Summit of the State

Rejecting the idea of shared power, Wilfried Houngbédji emphasized that a sitting head of state is not subject to any mentorship.

Recalling the presidential election of April 12, 2026, he clarified that the role of former president Patrice Talon ended with the support provided during the electoral campaign. It is therefore President Wadagni who will be accountable for his governance and the results of his actions before the Beninese people at the end of his seven-year term.

Excellent Relations and Continuity of Republican Experience

The spokesperson also indicated that President Romuald Wadagni aims for a record on par with or exceeding that of his predecessors, while benefiting from the experience of those who came before him.

He finally reassured the public about the quality of personal relations between Romuald Wadagni and Patrice Talon, stating that the two men maintain very good relationships based on mutual respect.