Bénin transition: Patrice Talon’s final cabinet meeting insights

At the Palais de la Marina in Cotonou, President Patrice Talon led his final cabinet meeting on May 13, 2026, as his two-term presidency neared its conclusion. The historic session included the presence of Romuald Wadagni, the president-elect, marking a poignant moment in Benin’s political transition.

Emotional farewell as Talon reflects on governance

The meeting, described as emotionally charged, served as a platform for Talon to express gratitude to his ministers for their dedication to the reforms initiated since 2016. “I ask you to forgive any hardships my approach may have caused,” he stated, acknowledging the personal sacrifices made by the team. The outgoing president also defended his hands-on governance style, attributing it to the need for uncompromising progress in public service delivery.

Wadagni pledges continuity in national transformation

The presence of Romuald Wadagni—former Minister of Economy and Finance—added significance to the proceedings. Wadagni commended Talon’s decade-long efforts and assured that key national projects would continue under his leadership. “The nation’s transformation journey will advance with the same rigor and excellence,” he affirmed during the discussions.

The session, held just days before Talon’s second term officially ends, underscored the seamless transition ahead. Talon was first elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2021, setting the stage for this handover.

Power transfer scheduled for May 24

The cabinet meeting concluded with a warm farewell among ministers at the Palais de la Marina, symbolizing the end of an era. The official handover ceremony between Patrice Talon and Romuald Wadagni is set for May 24, 2026, when Wadagni will take the oath of office at the Palais des Congrès in Cotonou, as per Benin’s constitutional timeline.