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Patrice Talon5th President of Benin since April 6, 2016
Date of Birth: 01.05.1958
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Content:
- Patrice Talon: Benin's 5th President
- Early Life and Education
- Business Background
- Political Career
- Presidency
- Controversies
- Constitutional Amendment Proposal
- Exclusion of Opposition
- Second Term and Reconciliation
Patrice Talon: Benin's 5th President
Patrice Talon is a Beninese businessman and politician who has served as the 5th President of Benin since April 6, 2016.
Early Life and Education
Born in the city of Ouidah, Benin, Talon belongs to the Fon ethnic group. He obtained his baccalaureate degree from Dakar, Senegal.
Business Background
Known as the "Cotton King" due to his involvement in the cotton industry, Talon supported President Yayi Boni by funding his electoral campaigns in 2006 and 2011. As a reward, he was granted a deal to purchase the cotton sector from the state agricultural corporation SONAPRA in 2008.
Political Career
Despite being a supporter of the ruling party, Talon ran as an independent candidate in the March 2016 presidential election. He finished second to incumbent Prime Minister Lionel Zinsou in the first round but won the second round with 65% of the vote.
Presidency
Upon taking office, Talon announced a government action plan (PAG) with significant private sector investments totaling around 14 billion euros. The PAG aims to create 500,000 jobs over five years.
Controversies
Critics have noted the rapid business growth of Talon's associates since his election, particularly his wife, children, and close allies. His ally, Olivier Boko, has been nicknamed the "vice president" due to his presence and influence in government affairs despite holding no official position.
Constitutional Amendment Proposal
In April 2017, the National Assembly rejected a bill that would have led to a referendum on Talon's proposal to limit presidents to a single six-year term.
Exclusion of Opposition
The opposition was barred from participating in the 2019 parliamentary elections and the 2021 presidential election.
Second Term and Reconciliation
Talon was re-elected for a second term in 2021. In September 2021, he met with former President Thomas Boni Yayi, with whom he had a strained relationship. Yayi presented requests, including the release of political prisoners.
