Benin: Electoral campaign scheduled for May 1-15 /update 1

Event

The Ministerial Council of the Republic of Benin announced on Tuesday, January 28, that the official electoral campaign period ahead of the Sunday, May 17, communal and municipal elections will run from Friday, May 1, to Friday, May 15. During this period, an increase in political rallies and demonstrations as well as associated transportation disruptions is to be expected throughout the country, notably in the capital Porto-Novo.

An increased security presence is likely at any political rallies or gatherings, and clashes between protesters and security personnel are possible.

Context

The elections will aim at renewing communal and municipal councils in Benin's 77 communes, and 546 districts.

Benin's last communal and municipal elections were held on June 28, 2015. According to the new electoral code and the new law on the charter of political parties in the Republic of Benin there is currently 11 political parties able to take part in these elections.

Advice

Individuals in Benin are advised to monitor the situation, avoid public political demonstrations due to the risk of violence, anticipate localized disruptions on May 17, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments. As a precaution, individuals in Benin are strongly advised to be discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc.