Parakou: after the HCPC, a parliamentary inquiry commission to verify the statements of Paulin Kponna
The National Assembly of Benin adopted a resolution on Friday, July 4, 2025, creating a parliamentary inquiry commission tasked with examining the management of resources allocated to the provision of drinking water and electricity in the municipality of Parakou, over the period from 2016 to 2025.
This parliamentary initiative follows the statements of Paulin Akponna, former Minister of Energy, Water, and Mines. During a visit to Parakou on June 21, the former minister asserted that billions of CFA francs had been misappropriated within his former department, thus explaining the persistent shortcomings in basic services in the municipality.
A mission with well-defined outlines
Composed of ten deputies, four from the Progressive Union Renewal, three from the Republican Bloc, and three from The Democrats party, the commission was inaugurated on Monday, July 7, 2025. It is mandated to:
- verify the legality of public procurement procedures;
- control any amendments to base contracts;
- technically and financially evaluate the completed or ongoing projects.
The initial term of the mission is set for three months, with the possibility of extension for another month with the authorization of the National Assembly bureau. A final report will be submitted in a plenary session.
High expectations for transparency
Through this commission, Parliament intends to shed light on the investments made in the vital sectors of water and electricity in the main urban center of the north of the country. The approach also aims to make recommendations for better governance of public infrastructures in Parakou.
This initiative marks an institutional response to the growing concerns of the population about access to essential services, in a context where social needs are continually increasing.
List of deputy members of the inquiry commission
Jérémie Adomahou (UPR)