On Wednesday, May 13, 2026, President Patrice Talon presided over his final cabinet meeting at the Palais de la Marina in Cotonou, marking the culmination of two terms in office. The historic session included the presence of the newly elected president, Romuald Wadagni, who joined the outgoing leader for this symbolic gathering.
The meeting unfolded in an emotional atmosphere as members of the executive team reflected on the past decade. Patrice Talon took the opportunity to express his gratitude to his ministers for their unwavering dedication to the reforms initiated in 2016. « I ask for your understanding regarding any difficulties you may have faced due to my approach. This was solely driven by my determination to achieve the highest standards », he stated.
The outgoing president also addressed his governance style, acknowledging that his rigorous oversight of public matters sometimes bordered on strictness. He emphasized that this approach was essential to meet the demands of effective administration and the objectives set for Benin’s governance.
Romuald Wadagni reaffirms commitment to continuity
The presence of Romuald Wadagni at the meeting underscored a smooth transition of power. The incoming president, a former Minister of Economy and Finance under Talon’s administration, praised his predecessor’s achievements over the past ten years. He reassured the team that ongoing projects across key sectors would continue under his leadership. « The national transformation we have begun will proceed with the same rigor and excellence », he affirmed.
Wadagni’s participation in a cabinet meeting before his official inauguration reflects a seamless handover process, just days ahead of the end of Talon’s second term—a tenure he first secured in 2016 and was re-elected to in 2021.
Transition scheduled for May 24
The meeting concluded with a moment of camaraderie among the executive members, symbolizing the close of an era under Patrice Talon’s leadership. This final gathering set the stage for the formal transfer of power to the incoming administration.
The official handover ceremony between Patrice Talon and Romuald Wadagni is set for May 24, 2026. The elected president will take the oath of office on the same day at the Palais des Congrès in Cotonou, in accordance with the constitutional timeline for the installation of Benin’s new head of state.
