Benin: After refusing to take his seat in the Senate, former president Boni Yayi changes his mind

For Boni Yayi, what is true one day is not always true the next. After refusing to take his seat in the Senate, the former Beninese president, known for his fierce opposition to Patrice Talon's regime, has finally changed his mind.

In a statement published recently, the former tenant of the Marina Palace discussed the reasons that led him to reconsider his position.

"The Senate could be a framework for internal political dialogue intended to represent the voice and expectations of the people."

“The national context has changed considerably, and much water has flowed under the bridge. Our country is facing new institutional realities, notably the establishment of a single-party Parliament. Frameworks for dialogue have become virtually nonexistent or even significantly reduced, even though our democracy needs spaces for exchange and debate more than ever…”

"The Senate could be a framework for internal political dialogue intended to carry the voice and expectations of the people, I intend (therefore) to exercise my right as a senator," said Boni Yayi.

He believes that this position will allow him "to work for the ideal of the homeland," which yearns for "respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, strengthening of the gains of national unity, security, defense of the territory, dialogue, democracy and peace."

"I will strive, along with my colleagues, to make the Senate a vessel of honor for the interests of the people," he promised, before inviting his compatriots to continue praying for the country and to work for peace, justice, security, and democracy.

As a reminder, the ceremony for the installation of the members of the Senate will take place on July 30th at the National Assembly in Porto-Novo.