Spreading Islamist insurgency dominates Benin's presidential campaign

Cross-border raids from militant Islamists are increasingly threatening the West African state's stability.

Benin's presidential campaign is dominated by the growing threat of Islamist insurgency spreading from neighboring countries. Security is a central issue as cross-border raids by militants, including an al-Qaeda affiliate, have increased, resulting in significant military casualties and alarming local populations. The election follows a recent coup attempt and occurs amid regional instability, with candidates pledging to prioritize security and improve relations with neighboring states.

Voters in Benin are heading to the polls Sunday to elect a new president as outgoing leader Patrice Talon steps down after a decade in power with a mixed legacy of economic growth, but also a growing jihadi insurgency in the north and a clamp down on the opposition and critics. Romuald Wadagni, the 49-year-old finance minister and governing coalition standard-bearer, is considered Talon's anointed successor. Wadagni is being challenged by Paul Hounkpè, the sole opposition candidate.

Voters in Benin are heading to the polls Sunday to elect a new president as outgoing leader Patrice Talon steps down after a decade in power with a mixed legacy of economic growth, but also a growing jihadi insurgency in the north and a clamp down on the opposition and critics. Romuald Wadagni, the 49-year-old finance minister and governing coalition standard-bearer, is considered Talon's anointed successor. Wadagni is being challenged by Paul Hounkpè, the sole opposition candidate.