ABUJA, Nigeria (BG) – The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening democracy in Benin, pledging support for the country’s electoral process ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Ambassador Amadou Diongue, ECOWAS resident representative in Benin, paid a courtesy visit to Sacca Lafia, president of the Autonomous National Electoral Commission (CENA), to discuss preparations for the country’s upcoming elections.

In a statement on Sunday, ECOWAS stated that the exchange highlighted the importance of proactive engagement and collaborative efforts to ensure a free, fair, and transparent electoral process.

ECOWAS reiterated its firm commitment to supporting the government of Benin in its preparations for the elections.

The organization underlined its commitment to accompanying Benin for smooth elections with full respect to the established legal framework.

Discussions between Diongue and Lafia also addressed the specific challenges and opportunities linked to electoral preparations.

They explored potential areas of collaboration, including technical assistance, capacity building and logistical support, to strengthen CENA’s capacity to organize credible and inclusive elections.

Benin is set to hold general elections in 2026, comprising communal, municipal, and legislative elections in January, followed by the presidential election in April, with a potential second round in May.

Last year, President Patrice Talon reaffirmed his commitment to not changing the constitution in order to run for a third term.