Benin presidency term extended to seven years
Benin’s parliament has approved a major constitutional amendment that extends the presidential term from five to seven years, ahead of the 2026 elections.
The vote passed overwhelmingly, with 90 legislators in favour and 19 against. Under the new rules, a president can serve two seven-year terms, but no more.
In addition to changing the presidential term, the reform establishes a Senate, creating a bicameral legislature. The new upper house will have at least 25 members, including appointed senators and ex-officio members like former presidents.
Current President Patrice Talon, who has led Benin since 2016, is not eligible to run again he’s serving his second term and has publicly stated he will not seek a third.
Supporters of the amendment argue that a longer presidential term will give future leaders more time to pursue long-term development projects, such as infrastructure and economic reforms. However, critics fear that strengthening the executive and giving the president influence over Senate appointments may weaken democratic checks on power.
