It was the first time the opposition was participating in elections since cotton-magnate Talon came to power in 2016.
Seven political parties, including three allied to the opposition, were allowed to participate in the election. In 2019, opposition parties were effectively barred from participating in a legislative ballot due to stricter election rules, resulting in a parliament dominated by government supporters. That vote was marred by deadly clashes in an opposition stronghold, historic low turnout and an internet blackout, rare events in Benin.
On paper, Benin appears to be a constitutional democracy run by the rule of law. But since Talon first came to office and after getting re-elected in 2021, most of his opponents have been jailed or have gone into exile. He has gradually squeezed the substance out of the democratic and constitutional forms, leaving only a shell. Over time, Talon has been accused of politicized the security apparatus, the judicial system, and the media while intimidating or banning the opposition.
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Source: ReutersAfrica - 🏆 31. / 53 Read more »