Benin: Valentin Djènontin predicts defections within Les Démocrates
The former Minister of Justice under President Boni Yayi, Valentin Djènontin-Agossou, analyzes the situation within the party Les Démocrates and foresees defections soon.
SUMMARY
In a statement published this Tuesday, he says that Benin is heading toward a one-party system and predicts possible defections from the ranks of the main opposition party to the rupture regime.
The former MP, now a political exile, says he is not surprised by the current turn of events. He recalls having sounded repeated warnings since the 2019 constitutional revision and the adoption of the new Electoral Code in 2024, which he considers key steps in the democratic backsliding in Benin.
Toward a deeper crisis within Les Démocrates
Valentin Djènontin also warns of a likely internal crisis within the party Les Démocrates. According to him, several leaders — namely MPs, vice-presidents or influential members — could soon distance themselves from President Boni Yayi, who will be accused of being the main person responsible for the party’s current difficulties.
“Not everyone is cut out for the political struggle. Integrity, loyalty and perseverance are the least shared qualities in Beninese politics. There are more opportunists than fighters,” he laments, calling on his comrades to keep “courage, faith and hope.”
This statement comes amid strong internal tensions within the LD, after the disqualification of their candidate Me Renaud Agbodjo for the 2026 presidential election and the rise of a feeling of disillusion among several senior party officials.
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