Religious Leaders in Benin Urge Citizens to Remain Calm amid Contested Electoral Code

The religious leaders added, “We must, at all costs, spare the Beninese people the violence that marred the last elections, by voting for an Electoral Code that guarantees peaceful, transparent, inclusive and democratic elections in 2026.”

They invited the members of parliament  “in the name of the higher interest of the nation, in the name of the preservation of peace and stability of our country, to avoid any law or provision that could lead to exclusion.”

Some 28 opposition MPs voted against the amendment while 79 MPs from the ruling party voted in favor and there was one abstention. 

The abstainer from President Patrice Talon's camp noted from the outset that the National Assembly of Benin was moving away from the Court's instructions. 

According to the adopted electoral code, each presidential-vice-presidential candidate duo must gather the support of at least 15 percent of MPs and mayors, from at least three-fifths of electoral districts, marking a 5 percent increase on previous legislation. 

More in Africa

The “distinct cultural, community forces” Africa’s Delegates to Synod on Synodality Want Integrated into Church Mission

Read the article

In addition, a deputy or mayor may now only sponsor a candidate from his or her political party, unless there is a prior governance agreement between the two parties, formalized with the electoral commission before candidacies are submitted.

Furthermore, one must achieve a score of at least 20 percent in the 24 constituencies compared to 10 in the past to claim a deputy seat. 

Jude Atemanke is a Cameroonian journalist with a passion for Catholic Church communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Buea in Cameroon. Currently, Jude serves as a journalist for ACI Africa.