Benin 2026 Presidential Election: From Prison, Richard Boni Ouorou Reacts to Romuald Wadagni’s Nomination
A day after Romuald Wadagni was named the ruling coalition’s candidate for the 2026 presidential election, Richard Boni Ouorou, president of the opposition party Le Libéral and currently imprisoned in the case involving his party’s registration, issued a message of support.
Richard Boni Ouorou – Président fondateur du parti Le Libéral au Bénin @ Le Libéral
In a statement dated Monday, September 1, 2025, Boni Ouorou broke his silence on national politics: “It is with great enthusiasm that I learned […] of the choice of Minister Romuald Wadagni to be the ruling coalition’s candidate in the upcoming presidential elections,” he wrote, praising President Patrice Talon’s foresight in the process.
According to him, this nomination reflects the will to continue the drive for performance and efficiency launched since 2016. “From 2026, this momentum must continue, or even improve, with a new paradigm suited to the current challenges of our society,” he noted.
“An economic asset” amid global challenges
In his analysis, Boni Ouorou highlighted the economic credentials of Minister Wadagni: “His experience as Minister of Finance and Economy is not just an asset, it is a need — even a necessity,” he argued. The political scientist pointed to Wadagni’s fiscal results and international recognition, dismissing criticism of public debt: “Debt is never the problem, only its misallocation can be.”
The opposition figure, now considered a political prisoner by some, said he believes the ruling coalition’s candidate can convince voters with “measured and realistic proposals” in an “objective and peaceful” campaign.
A message from behind bars