COTONOU, Benin (AP) - The National Assembly of Benin has approved a significant constitutional reform, which includes extending presidential and legislative terms. The vote, which took place on Saturday, resulted in 90 members in favor and 19 against, marking a crucial change in the political landscape of the West African nation as it prepares for its presidential elections scheduled for April.
The newly passed amendment will extend the terms of both the president and lawmakers from the current five years to seven years. However, it is important to note that the existing two-term limit for the presidency remains unchanged. This reform aims to provide more stability and continuity in governance, yet it has raised eyebrows among the opposition.
In addition to the term extension, the reform introduces the creation of a new legislative body—a Senate. This Senate is expected to comprise between 25 and 30 members, including former heads of state and individuals appointed directly by the sitting president. One of the key responsibilities of this Senate will be its authority to request a second reading of laws passed by the National Assembly, except for certain exceptions such as finance-related laws.
Despite the Assembly's approval, the reforms will require validation from the Constitutional Court before they can take effect, which is slated to happen after the upcoming presidential elections in April. This constitutional change comes at a pivotal time, as President Patrice Talon is expected to step down after a decade in office.
The race to succeed him seems to favor Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni, a close ally of Talon. Wadagni is currently seen as the frontrunner for the presidency, particularly given that the main opposition candidate has been barred from the elections due to failure in meeting the necessary endorsement requirements.
However, the approval of the constitutional reforms has been met with considerable criticism from Benin's main opposition party, The Democrats. They have alleged irregularities during the vote and voiced strong opposition to the establishment of the Senate. Opposition lawmaker Kolawol Djima Ogbon articulated significant concerns, suggesting that the Senate could allow President Talon, should he be appointed as a former head of state, to maintain considerable influence over national affairs.
The political climate in Benin thus appears to be under considerable scrutiny as the election approaches. The changes brought forth by the National Assembly have sparked debates over the future of governance in the country, particularly concerning the balance of power and the potential for continued influence from the outgoing president.
As Benin navigates through these constitutional reforms and prepares for the electoral process, the implications of these changes will undoubtedly be closely monitored both domestically and internationally.
