Revision of the Electoral Code: the Democrats’ proposal stumbles on the July 11 deadline
The Democrats party’s stated desire to amend the Electoral Code again seems doubtful. Indeed, according to the ECOWAS charter, any electoral reform must take place at least six months before the vote. However, in Benin, this deadline is set for July 11, 2025.
In accordance with the provisions of ECOWAS and the currently in force Electoral Code, no modification can be made beyond this date. This legal lock, therefore, makes almost any revision of the electoral text practically impossible just days before the due date, despite calls for a review expressed by some political actors.
One of the most sensitive points of the Code, which advocates its revision, remains the representativeness threshold set at 20% at the national level for list validation. This requirement continues to raise concerns within the political class, particularly in opposition parties, who see a risk of exclusion in upcoming electoral consultations.
As the July 11th deadline approaches, political agitation is intensifying. The top brass are refining their strategies, in light of the legislative, municipal, and the 2026 presidential elections. Candidacies are forming, but the climate remains tense, against a backdrop of institutional mistrust.
Adopted in 2024, the Electoral Code had already been the subject of disputes. Several amendment proposals had been submitted, none of which were incorporated. The legal framework therefore remains the same, and the legal window for any revision permanently closes this Thursday.
Political parties will now have to work with the existing rules. In a context marked by an increased demand for transparency and fairness, the challenge for all actors will be to ensure a credible and peaceful electoral process.
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