Benin’s parliament has approved a constitutional amendment extending the presidential term from five to seven years and creating a new senate.
Benin has amended its constitution to extend the presidential term of office from five years to seven, according to a report from VANGUARD.
Lawmakers on Saturday approved the change with an overwhelming majority, marking one of the most significant political reforms in the country in recent years.
The amendment does not alter the existing two-term limit, meaning presidents may still serve a maximum of two terms. The current head of state, Patrice Talon, is set to step down next April after completing a decade in power. His chosen successor, Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni, is widely viewed as the frontrunner in the upcoming April presidential election.
In addition to extending the presidential term, the amendment establishes a new upper legislative chamber. The senate will comprise at least 25 members, including some appointed directly by the president and others serving as ex-officio members, such as former heads of state. The measure passed with 90 votes in favour and 19 against.
The reform marks a major shift in Benin’s political structure, reshaping both executive tenure and parliamentary composition as the country prepares for its next general election.