“I’d like to announce my withdrawal from Beninese politics,” Me Renaud Agbodjo

In a solemn statement made at his office in Jéricho, Me Renaud Agbodjo spoke for the first time since the Constitutional Court’s decision. The jurist, whose candidacy had been rejected by the Autonomous National Electoral Commission (CENA), described the Constitutional Court’s decision as “unfortunate and damaging”.

“I was a victim of internal dysfunctions within my political party and of widespread adversity,” he said, before adding that as a legal practitioner he felt “compelled, despite himself, to take note of the Constitutional Court’s decision”.

The former candidate of the Les Démocrates party expressed his deep disappointment, but also his gratitude to his supporters. “I was particularly moved by all the enthusiasm and popular jubilation that my nomination sparked. I am infinitely grateful to you”, he confided.

A considered withdrawal and a call for peace

Me Agbodjo announced his temporary withdrawal from political life. “After much reflection, I am withdrawing from Beninese political life for a time, in order to devote myself to my family, my law practice and my loved ones”, he affirmed. According to him, he harbors “no grudge” against anyone, including the Honorable Michel Sodjinou, whose sponsorship was at the heart of the dispute.

The lawyer urged his supporters to show restraint and non-violence. “I call on the people of Benin to refrain from any act of violence or reprisals in order to preserve social peace and harmony”, he insisted. Furthermore, he urged everyone to “use all possible channels of dialogue to resolve our differences”.