Rallying for stability - Crowds gather as Benin's Wadagni kicks off election bid in Kandi

"Supporters of Benin’s ruling coalition gathered in large numbers as presidential candidate and current Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni officially launched his campaign, with events held in the northern city of Kandi ahead of elections scheduled for April. The campaign begins just months after a failed coup attempt in December 2025, an episode that was thwarted with the support of regional allies and French assistance. In Kandi, crowds of young supporters filled the streets, waving flags and drumming as the candidate arrived, as footage shows. One of the banners carried by supporters read: 'National Federation of Movements Supporting Romuald Wadagni'. The campaign opening featured positive messaging around economic development and regional integration, with Wadagni outlining ambitions to turn Kandi into a key business hub. “We will therefore do everything we can to ensure that Kandi becomes an economic, commercial, and logistical hub,” he told supporters, adding that the city could become a destination for trade and mobility across borders. He also spoke of strengthening regional ties, saying: “We will do everything we can to ensure that our brothers from Niger, in a few months’ or years’ time, will want to come to Kandi for their holidays and time off,” and similarly referenced visitors from Togo and Nigeria coming for trade and work opportunities. Local officials also highlighted the achievements of President Patrice Talon’s administration. The Mayor of Kandi said: “We have seen what President Patrice Talon has achieved in Benin… these reforms have truly transformed the country and made it a great place to live.” Youth leaders expressed enthusiasm for the candidate’s platform, with one saying the large turnout 'demonstrates the affection we have for the candidate and the faith we have in his plans.' The launch marks the start of a campaign expected to focus heavily on continuity, stability, and security, following a period of political tension after the December 2025 coup attempt."

Go to News Site