Benin: Patrice Talon, chief senator?

Benin now has a Senate. The members of the institution were sworn in this Thursday, July 30th, at the National Assembly building in Porto-Novo. The second oldest member, Élisabeth Pognon, presided over the ceremony in the absence of Nicéphore Soglo.

The former president was, in fact, the only one of the 25 Senate members absent from the meeting in Porto-Novo on Thursday. All the others were present.

"I am quite moved to be able to honor my country once again."

Former presidents Patrice Talon and Boni Yayi sat side by side, chatting in a friendly atmosphere. At the end of the ceremony, Mr. Talon spoke to the press.

He stated that he was proud, honored, and moved to be able to serve the Republic once again. “It is an honor bestowed upon us by the people of Benin. Whenever a nation as great as Benin honors someone, you can imagine the emotion that person must feel. So I am quite moved to be able to honor my country again. By this honor they have bestowed upon me. May this entire generation of leaders give their best for our common development. Everywhere, we can serve; we must not fail to do so,” declared the former leader, who could well assume the presidency of the Senate next August.

Patrice Talon in pole position

It goes without saying that this second chamber of the Beninese Parliament is one of his inventions. He also enjoys strong support among the appointed and ex officio members of the institution. Boni Yayi will have a hard time challenging him, as will Nicéphore Soglo, weakened by age.