Presidential 2026 : Another duel Yayi- Talon en perspective

The first ordinary congress of the Democrats party (LD) resulted in the appointment of the former head of state Yayi Boni at the head of this political formation. To better put yourself in battle order, it was therefore necessary to downgrade Eric Houndété who is now the first vice-president. Far from frustrating the latter, the arrangement seems to have been mutually agreed at the top of the party especially because of the presidential election which is looming on the horizon.

Indeed, throughout these 18 last years, Yayi Boni remained the most popular politician in Benin. Each of his outings provokes such gatherings that it is often difficult for the police to contain the crowds..
This aura is therefore a certain asset that the Democrats intend to capitalize on to conquer power in 2026. More, in doing so, the Beninese are moving towards a scenario identical to that of the presidential election of 2016 which saw Patrice Talon win against the candidate supported by Yayi Boni then outgoing head of state.
According to the provisions of the Beninese constitution, Patrice Talon and Yayi Boni will not be able to run in the next election. The latter crossed the bar 70 years, age limit for standing in such an election and in addition, he has already spent two terms at the head of the country, the maximum number of mandates authorized. On his side, Patrice Talon is gradually moving towards the end of his second five-year term, which disqualifies him for the next election.
Once very close, these two personalities ended up having a dislike for each other. In 2016, While Yayi Boni tried to have Lionel Zinsou elected his then Prime Minister, Talon, known as kingmaker, had then decided to enter the arena himself. The campaign then took a particular turn because of the enmity between the two. Talon ended up winning the election and, following, tried in vain to have Yayi Boni tried.
The next presidential election will not be much different given that everyone will, to position, do everything to ensure that your candidate is elected. The shade, this time, it’s that the roles are reversed. Talon, as head of state and, Yes, as leader of the opposition. But in any case, the duel will not be easy at all and it is certain that the people will be treated to a very lively campaign.

Pierre MATCHOUDO