Romuald Wadagni, Benin’s finance minister, has won the country’s presidential election by a wide margin, securing approximately 94 percent of the vote, according to provisional results released by the electoral commission.

The preliminary tally, published overnight from Monday to Tuesday by the CENA electoral body, is yet to be confirmed through final official results. However, the scale of Wadagni’s lead leaves little doubt about the outcome of the poll.

Wadagni, 49, entered the race as the clear frontrunner, bolstered by his economic record and the endorsement of outgoing President Patrice Talon, who is stepping down after completing two five-year terms in office.

His campaign highlighted efforts to sustain economic growth despite mounting security challenges, including jihadist activity in parts of the country. While this message appeared to resonate nationally, voter enthusiasm remained subdued in urban centres.

In the capital, Porto-Novo, turnout at some polling stations ranged between 20 and 40 percent, while activity in the economic hub of Cotonou quickly returned to normal following Sunday’s vote. Nationwide turnout was recorded at 58.75 percent, according to the electoral commission.

Opposition candidate Paul Hounkpe conceded defeat before the final count was completed, extending his congratulations to Wadagni in a statement that emphasized democratic values.

“To Romuald Wadagni, I offer my republican congratulations. Democracy requires mutual respect and the ability to rise above partisan divides,” Hounkpe said.

Hounkpe’s campaign was relatively low-profile, and he required parliamentary backing to meet eligibility requirements to stand in the election. The absence of a candidate from the main opposition Democrats party further underscored the limited level of competition, after its leader, Renaud Agbodjo, failed to secure sufficient endorsements.

Initial reactions to the election have been mixed. Some media outlets described the process as calm and well-organised, while others raised concerns about its credibility. A supporter of Wadagni, Rominus Gnonlonfoun, expressed confidence ahead of the official confirmation, stating that the results would affirm what he called an “undisputed victory.”

Final certification of the results by the electoral authorities is expected in the coming days.