In Benin, the campaign for the presidential election of April 12th pits two radically different dynamics against each other.
On one side, the candidate backed by President Patrice Talon, who is crisscrossing the north of the country with massive rallies. On the other, Paul Hounkpè, candidate of the Forces Cauris for an Emerging Benin (FCBE), who is banking on a more discreet but determined campaign. In a transformed political landscape, where the opposition is almost entirely reduced to the FCBE and a few fringe groups, Paul Hounkpè's supporters are clinging to hope.
During a meeting in a conference hall in Cotonou, Paul Hounkpè, considered a moderate opposition figure, delivered a clear message to his supporters: the game isn't over, that's the first thing. Secondly, this isn't a friendly match. It's a serious game, and I know that if nothing changes in the next two weeks, or if we were to vote today, we would be the winners.
Despite a limited audience compared to his rival, Hounkpè displays unwavering confidence and is counting on a last-minute mobilization. However, the Democrats, excluded from the race due to a lack of sufficient endorsements, refused to support a joint candidacy. Several of their leaders nevertheless chose to individually back Romuald Wadagni, Patrice Talon's chosen successor.
With a fragmented opposition and the ruling power determined to maintain its influence, it is almost certain, barring a political earthquake, to remain in control.
