Benin’s political scene witnessed unusual activity on September 26, 2025, as several prominent figures visited the home of former President Thomas Boni Yayi. The gatherings come as the Les Démocrates (LD) party prepares to finalize its candidate duo for the 2026 presidential election.
The day prior, Daniel Edah, president of the Nous le fera movement, formalized his membership in the party.
The day’s consultations began with former Minister Célestine Zanou, followed by former ministers Ganiou Soglo and Alain Adihou, who shared perspectives on the national situation and delivered messages to the public.
Ganiou Soglo described the meeting with Boni Yayi as productive and emphasized the broader mission of the party. “We discussed the political life of our country and I think it went very well,” he said.
Highlighting social and fiscal challenges facing Benin, he urged citizens to remain hopeful: “This fight we are waging is against the fiscal and social injustice that affects our people. We say to our people: do not be afraid.
We are not only seeking to conquer power, but to alleviate the suffering of our fellow citizens.” He also stressed the importance of reinvigorating “love” as a guiding principle in political action, referencing Boni Yayi’s social initiatives during his presidency.
Alain Adihou delivered a stark assessment of the country’s challenges, criticizing the electoral code and highlighting persistent social hardships. “In the country today, there are people who are hungry, who are unemployed, who live in insecurity.
They want us to believe that things will continue like this for almost ten years. It is unacceptable,” he said. Advocating for a united opposition, he called for what he described as a “sacred union of the opposition” to safeguard democracy and counter the ruling camp’s dominance.
These consultations underscore a decisive phase for Les Démocrates, whose selection of a presidential ticket is imminent. The high-profile attendance at Boni Yayi’s residence reflects the intensity of strategic planning within the opposition, as the country approaches a critical electoral period.
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