Cotonou

Cotonou is a city in Benin, West Africa, and served as a focal point for the country's recent presidential election. The election, held on April 12, 2026, saw Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni, endorsed by outgoing President Patrice Talon, secure a landslide victory. Talon stepped down after serving two five-year terms. Al Jazeera's Ahmed Idris reported from Cotonou, explaining what was at stake in the election. Campaigning took place in Cotonou, with candidates like Wadagni and Paul Hounkpè holding rallies. The election is newsworthy due to the transition of power and the challenges facing the incoming president, including security issues in the north and concerns about living standards. The election results signify a continuation of the economic policies implemented over the past decade, though challenges remain.