Benin – Constitutional revision: Aké Natondé denies any political maneuvering

The proposed constitutional revision bill introduced by the two pro-government political blocs continues to spark controversy.

In the face of questions and speculation, Aké Natondé, president of the Union Progressiste le Renouveau parliamentary group, sought to clarify his intentions. He firmly rejects any idea of a political maneuver aimed at extending President Patrice Talon’s term or establishing a new Republic.

“This revision does not entail a change of Republic,” he said, dismissing suspicions of a hidden agenda.

According to Aké Natondé, the proposal aims solely to strengthen the institutional framework in response to the country’s security challenges. It is part of an effort to consolidate democracy, without altering provisions relating to the length or number of presidential terms.

“None of us is pursuing a revision to allow President Patrice Talon to remain in power,” he said during a media appearance this weekend.

An already locked-in electoral context

The MP recalls that the filing period for candidacies for the 2026 presidential election is already closed, making any new candidacy by the incumbent president impossible. This legal reality reinforces, he says, the transparency and sincerity of the process.

Aké Natondé calls on citizens to move beyond suspicions and engage in a constructive debate focused on the country’s real issues.

“It is important that proposals for revision be addressed with openness and respect for the electoral process,” he concluded.