Newly-elected Benin president aims to reduce presidential terms

March 26, 2016 9:35 AM

The peaceful election was seen as reinforcing the democratic credentials of Benin, a bastion of stability in a region where elections are often marred by violence.

Benin Presidential candidate Patrice Talon (C, in white) arrives at a polling station during presidential elections in Cotonou, Benin, March 20, 2016. REUTERS/Charles Placide Tossou

Newly-elected Benin president

Talon took 65.4 percent of the vote in last Sunday's run-off poll to decide who would replace President Thomas Boni Yayi, who is stepping down after serving two terms in office, the constitutional court said on Friday. The figures confirmed results that came out earlier in the week.

"I will first and foremost tackle constitutional reform," Talon told reporters, reinforcing a promise made during campaigning. One term of five years would reduce presidential "complacency", he said.

Benin presidents can currently serve two five-year terms.

By relinquishing power after serving two terms in office, Boni Yayi stands in contrast to leaders in other African nations, including Burundi, Rwanda and Congo Republic, who have altered their constitutions to extend their rule.

Talon said his government will be made up of 16 members, down from the 28 members of the outgoing government.