By Biiso FM News Desk | October 28, 2025 | Cotonou, Benin
Cotonou, Benin
Benin’s Constitutional Court has officially ruled to exclude the main opposition party, Les Démocrates, from contesting in the country’s 2026 presidential election, in a decision that has sparked widespread debate about political openness and democracy in the West African nation.
The ruling, delivered on October 27, upholds an earlier decision by the National Electoral Commission (CENA), which rejected Les Démocrates’ presidential nomination papers, citing failure to meet several legal requirements including insufficient sponsorship endorsements and non-payment of the full registration fee.
Political Field Shifts Ahead of 2026 Vote
The court’s verdict effectively removes the principal challenger to the ruling establishment, significantly reshaping the 2026 presidential race. Analysts say the exclusion of Les Démocrates could leave voters with limited political choices and undermine confidence in Benin’s democratic institutions.
“This is a serious setback for multiparty democracy in Benin. The opposition’s exclusion raises questions about whether the upcoming election will be genuinely competitive,” one political observer told Biiso FM.
Founded by former President Thomas Boni Yayi, Les Démocrates has been the strongest opposition force since its creation in 2019, and its absence is likely to tilt the political balance in favor of the ruling coalition.
Concerns Over Democratic Credibility
Once celebrated as one of West Africa’s most stable democracies, Benin’s political landscape has in recent years faced growing scrutiny over restrictions on opposition parties and dissenting voices.
International observers and local civil society groups have expressed concern that the court’s decision further narrows political space and could damage Benin’s democratic image in the region.
“Benin was once a beacon of democracy. Excluding a major opposition party at such a crucial time could erode public trust and international confidence,” a civil rights advocate said.
What Lies Ahead
With Les Démocrates now officially out of the race, attention turns to the remaining candidates and how they will navigate a political environment critics describe as increasingly restrictive.
The 2026 presidential campaign is expected to intensify in the coming months, as Benin’s leaders seek to reassure citizens and the international community of their commitment to democratic principles.
For now, questions remain about whether true competition will be possible — and whether Benin’s reputation as a democratic model in West Africa can endure the current political turbulence.
Biiso FM will continue to monitor developments in Benin’s 2026 election preparations and provide timely updates as the story unfolds.
