One week after his inauguration, President Romuald Wadagni has begun shaping his inner circle at the Presidential Palace. Blending continuity with specialized expertise and powerful symbols, the new head of state is outlining a seven-year trajectory focused on rigor and inclusivity.

Sworn in on May 24, 2026, President Romuald Wadagni has wasted no time assembling a team of technocrats and senior officials. Within just eight days, a series of decrees established the structure of a presidential cabinet designed to address the challenges of the next seven years. Upon closer inspection, this framework rests on a delicate balance—maintaining technical expertise while strengthening the security apparatus around him. The selection of profiles, combining experienced figures with historically significant appointments, clearly reflects a commitment to governance through method, while integrating unifying symbols.

Captain Elvire Toupé: Breaking barriers in presidential security

First woman aide-de-camp in Beninese history

The appointment of Captain Elvire Toupé as aide-de-camp marks a historic first for Benin. As the first woman to hold this strategic role since the country’s independence in 1960, she shatters a long-standing glass ceiling within the Beninese Armed Forces (FAB). The aide-de-camp position is far from ceremonial—it involves being the constant shadow of the president, managing security agendas, controlling access, and coordinating the close protection detail around the clock. Beyond the symbolic gesture echoing the legendary Amazons, Captain Toupé’s appointment underscores the excellence and competence of a career officer within the military hierarchy, paving the way for women to assume positions of sovereignty and major responsibility.

General Bertin Bada: Strategic air force leadership for national security

A seasoned commander at the helm of defense policy

Through Decree N° 2026-324 issued on May 28, 2026, General Bertin Bada has been appointed to lead the President’s Defense and Security Council. This role demands a deep understanding of geopolitical issues and regional threats. By selecting the former Military Cabinet Chief of his predecessor, President Romuald Wadagni ensures a contemporary strategic vision and mastery of surveillance systems. General Bada will be responsible for coordinating national defense policies and guiding presidential decisions regarding territorial protection. His appointment reaffirms that security remains a top priority for the current administration.

Fiacre Vidjingninou: Crafting the presidential narrative

Director of Communication tasked with shaping the administration’s image

Appointed Director of Presidential Communication via Decree N° 2026-325 on May 28, 2026, Fiacre Vidjingninou now serves as the official voice of the executive branch. Renowned in media circles for his deep knowledge of both national and international media landscapes, he will be responsible for crafting the image of the Wadagni presidency. Amid the challenges of the digital age and the need for greater transparency, the new director must develop a dynamic information strategy, manage press relations, and ensure the coherence of government communication. His role is crucial in fostering trust between the highest levels of the state and Beninese citizens.

General Djimon Dieudonné Tévoèdjrè: Continuity in presidential protection

Reappointed Commander of the Republican Guard

Decree N° 2026-323, also issued on May 28, 2026, reappoints General Djimon Dieudonné Tévoèdjrè as Commander of the Republican Guard. This decision reflects the total confidence President Romuald Wadagni places in this seasoned military leader. Responsible for the close protection of the president, as well as other officials and republican institutions, General Tévoèdjrè embodies stability within the government. His mission demands constant vigilance, rigorous discipline, and unwavering loyalty. Under his command, the Republican Guard will continue modernizing its intervention tactics and securing sensitive sites around the Head of State.

A political duo to navigate Benin’s evolving landscape

Gaston Dossouhoui and Modeste T. Kérékou: bridging politics and governance

Through Decree N° 2026-328 on May 28, 2026, Gaston Cossi Dossouhoui and Modeste Tihounté Kérékou join the presidency as Advisors on Political Affairs. This choice unites two highly experienced profiles, well-versed in the realities of the ground and current dynamics in Benin. Their role is to act as sensors and facilitators for the president among political forces, civil society, and local governments. In a seven-year term that promises to be eventful, this duo will be tasked with easing tensions, strengthening the political base of the regime, and ensuring that reforms initiated by the president align with the expectations of the population.

Colonel Major Chahounka: The military’s strategic liaison with the presidency

New head of the Presidential Military Cabinet

Colonel Major Mètohokan Gabin Abel Chahounka has been appointed Head of the Presidential Military Cabinet, as per Decree N° 2026-322 dated May 28, 2026. This pivotal role ensures the permanent link between the Head of State, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and the Ministry of Defense as well as the General Staff. The new appointee will oversee the efficient transmission of presidential orders, monitor ongoing operations, and manage the administrative affairs of military personnel attached to the Presidency. His technical expertise and administrative rigor will be invaluable in guaranteeing the operational effectiveness and responsiveness of the state’s security apparatus.