Benin’s presidential candidate Hounkpe concedes defeat in preliminary results

Benin’s presidential election candidate Paul Hounkpe on Monday conceded defeat to his rival, Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni, following voting held on Sunday.

The 56-year-old leader of the Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin party (FCBE) said in a statement that he was acting “as a statesman committed to republican principles, respect for the popular vote and the stability” of the country.

Hounkpe added that he acknowledged “with responsibility” the emerging trend from initial results.

He also extended his “republican congratulations” to Wadagni, stressing that “democracy requires mutual respect and rising above partisan divisions.”

The FCBE leader, also a former culture minister, expressed hope that the new administration would focus on priorities such as social justice, economic inclusion, institutional reforms and national reconciliation.

Hounkpe also thanked his supporters, saying the goal remains to “serve Benin and work tirelessly for the well-being of our fellow citizens.”

Official results have not yet been announced, with provisional results expected on Tuesday, but initial trends from the ongoing vote count appear to show an advantage for Wadagni, according to Hounkpe’s statement.