Benin’s lawmakers have approved a major constitutional amendment that extends the presidential tenure from five years to seven.
The new amendment was passed on Saturday, November 15, after an intense debate inside the National Assembly in Porto Novo.
The lawmakers, however, kept the two-term limit unchanged despite the extended tenure.
The development marks one of the most significant political changes in Benin since its return to multiparty democracy.
The amendment received strong support from the ruling bloc. It passed with 90 votes in favour and 19 against.
The outcome confirmed earlier predictions that the proposal would scale through without much resistance.
Although some opposition members raised concerns, the majority pushed the bill through.
President Patrice Talon, who has led the country for almost a decade, will leave office next April.
He has repeatedly promised that he will step down after completing his second term. Many citizens earlier feared he might seek an extension.
His insistence on leaving helped calm political tension before the vote.
Furthermore, the new amendment introduces an upper legislative chamber for the first time in the country’s history.
The new senate will include at least 25 members. Some will be appointed by the president while others will serve as ex-officio members, including former presidents.
The government says the upper chamber will strengthen legislative balance and deepen democratic processes.
However, critics fear it may give the presidency more influence over national decisions.
With the presidential election drawing closer, attention is now shifting to Talon’s preferred successor.
Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni stands as the leading candidate.
Many analysts consider him the clear favourite. His influence in economic planning and government reforms has boosted his profile across the country.
Although the amendment changes the political landscape, many citizens remain divided.
Some believe a seven-year tenure will give future leaders more time to implement long-term policies. Others fear that longer terms may weaken democratic accountability.
These concerns emerged during earlier consultations and continued throughout the parliamentary debates.
Meanwhile, regional observers are closely watching developments in Benin.
The country has long been seen as one of West Africa’s more stable democracies. Recent political changes, including tightened election rules and rising opposition complaints, have raised questions about that reputation.
Nevertheless, Saturday’s vote signals that the government plans to push ahead with wide institutional reforms.
As the nation prepares for April’s election, political parties are adjusting their strategies.
Supporters of President Talon argue that the reforms will secure long-term stability.
Opposition leaders, however, warn that the changes may increase executive power.
Although the debate continues, Benin now faces a new political era shaped by a longer presidential mandate and the creation of a senate.