Benin: Opposition party rejects temporary legislative election results Jan. 12

Event

Political gatherings are possible nationwide after Les Democrates opposition party rejected the provisional legislative election results Jan. 12, citing various irregularities. While the party will most certainly appeal the results, the constitutional court is unlikely to rule in their favor. Les Democrates won 28 seats out of 109, according to preliminary results issued by the electoral commission. Final results are scheduled to be announced Jan. 13.

Likely gathering locations include main urban centers such as Cotonou and Porto Novo, particularly near political party headquarters and public places, and major thoroughfares. Increased security and localized disruptions are likely near all gatherings. Clashes with security forces or opposing rival activists are possible.

Context

Les Democrates opposition party was initially barred from running for the 2023 legislative election, raising concerns over possible political unrest to denounce what would have been perceived as unlawful. However, the constitutional court ordered the electoral commission to accept a reshuffled list of candidates. The 2023 legislative campaign, as well as the Jan. 8 polling day, passed off peacefully.

Tensions during electoral periods have been recurrent in the past in Benin. In 2019, a political crisis related to a controversial reform of the electoral system erupted following legislative elections, prompting nationwide protests for several months. The security crackdown and associated clashes left several people dead. The demonstrations caused major disruptions along the Cotonou-Tchaourou-Parakou axis. Similar protests took place in 2021 to demand the president's departure ahead of the presidential election; at least one person was killed in a demonstration dispersed by the army in Save (central Benin).

Advice

Refrain from discussing political topics in public. Avoid all gatherings due to possible clashes. If violence occurs nearby, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a safe nongovernment building. Heed all official advisories.