Bertin Koussi, the coordinator of the opposition party Les Démocrates (LD) in the Tori-Avamey district of Tori-Bossito, has publicly voiced his support for Romuald Wadagni, the current Minister of State for the Economy and Finance, and the presidential candidate nominated for the 2026 election.
His declaration follows a similar endorsement by MP Léon Basile Ahossi and signals a growing local momentum in favor of Wadagni’s candidacy.
In a statement dated September 5, 2025, Koussi cited the positive reception of Wadagni’s announcement among the local population as a key factor motivating his support.
“Our people, for 2026, expect their political actors to unite around a candidate who can guarantee unity and the preservation of our achievements,” he said, emphasizing the importance of cohesion within the party and across the electorate.
Koussi urged party activists to “join the people’s dynamic,” framing his endorsement as part of a broader vision for national unity and stability.
The statement underscores a strategic alignment with Wadagni’s campaign message, which focuses on continuity, economic stewardship, and fostering consensus among political stakeholders.
This development occurs against a backdrop of internal party debate. Les Démocrates, under former President Boni Yayi, has officially called for Wadagni to resign from his government post following the announcement of his candidacy, citing a potential conflict of interest.
Despite these official calls, Koussi’s position highlights a faction within the party willing to rally behind Wadagni, signaling potential shifts in local political dynamics ahead of the 2026 elections.
Observers suggest that endorsements from influential local leaders such as Koussi could play a decisive role in shaping public opinion in key districts. By combining grassroots support with a message of unity, Wadagni’s campaign appears poised to leverage both local enthusiasm and strategic party alliances in the lead-up to the national vote.
The coming months will reveal whether these local endorsements can translate into broader political momentum and influence Les Démocrates’ internal cohesion as Benin moves closer to the 2026 presidential contest.
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