Benin Parliament Approves Presidential Term Extension and New Senate

Benin’s parliament has approved a significant constitutional reform that extends presidential and parliamentary terms from five to seven years while establishing a new legislative body, the Senate. This amendment was passed with a vote of 90-19 at the National Assembly on March 23, 2024. The changes come as Benin prepares for a presidential election scheduled for April 2024, which will determine the successor to President Patrice Talon, who has held office for a decade.

The newly proposed Senate will consist of between 25 and 30 members, including former heads of state and individuals appointed directly by the president. This legislative body will have the authority to request a second reading of laws passed by the National Assembly, except for certain types of legislation, such as finance laws. The reforms must still receive approval from the Constitutional Court and will take effect after the upcoming presidential election.

President Talon is expected to leave office after his two terms. His closest ally, Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni, is widely regarded as the front-runner to succeed him. This comes amid significant political tensions, as the main opposition candidate has been barred from running due to not meeting the required endorsements.

The main opposition party, The Democrats, has expressed strong discontent with the recent vote, alleging irregularities and criticizing the establishment of the Senate. Opposition lawmaker Kolawolé Djima Ogbon voiced concerns that the Senate could allow President Talon, a former head of state, to maintain a substantial influence over the nation’s political landscape.

As Benin navigates this pivotal moment in its governance structure, the implications of these reforms will likely resonate deeply within its political and civic fabric. The upcoming election will be crucial in determining how these changes are embraced or contested by the electorate.