The Popular Liberation Movement (MPL) announced its formal withdrawal from the opposition consultation framework on Friday, September 5, 2025, citing persistent “duplicity” and “immobility” within the coalition.
The decision, ratified by the party’s Political Bureau and Executive Board, marks a significant fracture in a platform created in November 2024 with the stated goal of “repairing a damaged democracy.”
In a press release published on Saturday, September 6, the MPL explained that its departure stems from the coalition’s inability to meet its initial objectives.
The party emphasized that it had joined the framework to promote a “fair, transparent and inclusive” electoral environment, particularly through measures such as auditing the electoral register, revising the electoral code, and developing representative candidate lists.
Despite early concessions from the MPL, internal disagreements quickly stalled progress.
The party highlighted its willingness to compromise, even setting aside its logo to foster unity. “We were ready to sacrifice everything for the sake of cohesion,” the statement read. However, the MPL expressed frustration over what it described as “personal considerations” and “ego issues” that hindered the formation of a credible united opposition.
The press release detailed specific grievances, including the lack of progress on the electoral register audit, failed negotiations to form two balanced opposition blocs, and disputes over candidate positioning.
The MPL also criticized parties without electoral experience for asserting undue authority over candidate lists, while reaffirming its own commitment to “transcend identities” for the sake of unity.
Concluding its statement, the MPL declared that continuing under the current conditions “would no longer serve the interests of democracy or the aspirations of the people.” The party condemned a logic in which some actors prioritize personal privileges over building a credible alternative.
Despite its exit, the MPL affirmed its ongoing commitment to democratic values, pledging to continue advocating for free and transparent elections in Benin through “other means” and to contribute constructively to the country’s political future.
The departure of the MPL underscores ongoing challenges within Benin’s opposition and raises questions about the coalition’s ability to present a unified front ahead of upcoming elections.
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