The Autonomous National Electoral Commission (CENA) has continued its series of consultations with key stakeholders ahead of Benin’s 2026 general elections.
On Monday, October 6, 2025, representatives from ministries and public institutions gathered at the Azalaï Hotel in Cotonou for a working session dedicated to evaluating the electoral process and presenting the new tools for managing candidacies.
Chaired by CENA President Sacca Lafia, the meeting brought together the Minister of Justice, Yvon Détchénou, members of the Electoral Council, technical staff of the commission, and delegates from various governmental institutions.
In his opening remarks, Lafia stressed the importance of this stage in the electoral calendar, which coincides with the gradual rollout of technological innovations intended to modernize election management.
“Today’s meeting gives us the opportunity to take stock of the upcoming organization of the elections,” Lafia said.
“We will also present the practical arrangements for the preparation of physical candidacy files, as well as the functionalities of the e-Declaration platform, a modern and innovative digital tool designed to facilitate and secure the management of candidacies.”
The e-Declaration platform, developed by CENA, is designed to simplify administrative procedures, reduce errors, and ensure equal treatment for all candidates.
Lafia described it as “an instrument at the service of all,” marking a significant step in the digitalization of Benin’s electoral process.
Training sessions for political party technical staff are planned to ensure that all participants can effectively use the platform.
This session, the fourth since the launch of the consultations, reflects CENA’s commitment to transparency and inclusiveness ahead of the elections. The October 3 meeting, which focused on political parties, similarly emphasized the smooth implementation of the electoral timetable and preparation of candidacy submissions.
“If we wanted to meet with you, it is to show you that everything is progressing normally.
The CENA is doing its utmost to avoid the tensions often observed in the middle or at the end of the electoral process.
We remain open to all your suggestions to improve things and make the 2026 general elections a true democratic celebration,” Lafia declared.
Through these ongoing consultations, CENA aims to involve all stakeholders in ensuring a credible, participatory, and peaceful electoral process, reinforcing confidence in Benin’s democratic institutions.
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