2026 legislative elections in Benin: Éric Houndété puts an end to the controversy over his stance
The controversy had been growing for several days over Éric Houndété’s placement on the list of candidates of the party Les Démocrates for the 2026 legislative elections.
Eric Houndété, président du parti Les Démocrates
The former first vice-president of the Assemblée nationale is indeed listed as a substitute rather than as the main candidate. A choice that immediately rekindled internal tensions, some supporters seeing it as another sidelining orchestrated by former president Boni Yayi.
In response to the breadth of the comments, Éric Houndété spoke out to clarify the situation. He insists that it is neither a sanction nor a humiliation. He explains that, a year ago, he voluntarily decided to give up his place as the principal candidate — a promise made to give a chance to his long-time substitute, Jude Lodjou, or to any other prospective candidate.
“I gave my word a year ago. I have been a deputy five times. Jude Lodjou has always been placed directly after me. It is time for him to have his chance as well,” the former vice-president of the Assemblée recalled, determined to put an end to the speculation.
This clarification is meant to ease tensions within the party base, which is highly sensitive to any sign of division as the vote approaches. Éric Houndété thus confirms that he remains engaged in the electoral battle, but in a different position which, he says, reflects more a personal choice than an imposed decision.