Adrien Houngbédji, president of Benin’s Democratic Renewal Party (PRD), has clarified that he has not yet endorsed any candidate for the upcoming April 12, 2026 presidential election.
Speaking from Toronto, where he is staying for family reasons, Houngbédji sought to correct reports from certain media outlets suggesting he had already pledged support to a contender.
“Empathy for a person is one thing; political engagement alongside that person is another,” Houngbédji said in a press statement dated September 19, 2025.
He stressed that backing a candidate for the nation’s highest office cannot be based on personal relationships or courtesy visits.
“The presidential election is a major competition that affects the destiny of a people,” he added, noting that voters should decide based on the visions and concrete proposals of the different aspirants.3u
Houngbédji emphasized that only one candidate has so far been officially designated, but this candidate has not yet presented a comprehensive social project or program.
“For the time being, I am evaluating the positions and programs before making any decision,” he stated.
The politician also highlighted the importance of aligning any support with the “values and rules” he has consistently defended.
Speaking not only for himself but on behalf of a broader political movement that extends beyond the PRD, Houngbédji insisted that consultations with his party and affiliates are essential.
“I have a duty to discuss the future choice with them, so that my choice is also their choice, because they are not Panurge’s sheep,” he said, indicating that unilateral decisions would be ineffective.
Houngbédji’s position reflects a cautious approach in the early stages of Benin’s electoral process, underscoring the need for careful deliberation and broad-based consultation before committing to a candidate.
As the political landscape begins to take shape, his stance highlights the balance between personal convictions and collective party decision-making in shaping the country’s democratic future.
The April 2026 election is widely expected to be closely contested, with Houngbédji’s eventual endorsement likely to carry significant weight among voters and within political circles.
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