Benin is taking a major step toward modernising its electoral process ahead of the 2026 presidential election with the planned launch of a digital platform for tax clearance certificates, a key requirement for all candidates.
The Directorate General of Taxes (DGI) announced the initiative in a press release signed by Director General Nicolas Yenoussi.
The platform, currently undergoing IT system enhancements, aims to simplify requests for tax clearance and prevent technical malfunctions that could delay candidate submissions.
“I reassure you that efforts are underway to ensure the platform’s imminent opening and availability as soon as the work is completed,” the release stated. A dedicated call centre remains operational at 133 for additional guidance.
This development coincides with the National Autonomous Electoral Commission (Céna) distributing sponsorship forms to elected officials. Over the first two days, 53 deputies and 21 mayors collected their forms, according to François Abiola, a member of the Electoral Council.
Among deputies, 28 are from Les Démocrates (LD), 12 from Union Progressive Renewal (UPR), and 13 from the Republican Bloc (BR).
Among mayors, 16 represent the UPR, four the BR, and one from Forces cauris pour un Bénin émergent (FCBE). In total, 186 elected officials are expected to participate in the sponsorship process, which concludes on September 12 at 6 p.m.
The introduction of online tax clearance represents a significant step in streamlining the candidacy process. It is expected to reduce administrative bottlenecks and enhance transparency, allowing aspiring candidates to complete a critical step without the delays associated with manual procedures.
Observers note that this digital innovation could set a precedent for future electoral cycles in West Africa, aligning with broader regional efforts to modernise electoral management and improve citizen access to essential services.
As Benin prepares for the 2026 election, authorities continue to balance technological advancement with rigorous oversight, aiming to ensure that the electoral process remains efficient, transparent, and accessible for all participants.
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