Benin’s political landscape is set for major changes after lawmakers approved a constitutional amendment introducing a second chamber and lengthening presidential and parliamentary terms.
Although the decision comes too late to affect President Patrice Talon, the National Assembly has voted to extend both presidential and legislative mandates from five years to seven, beginning next year. Talon has about seven months remaining in his second and final term, and the two-term limit remains firmly in place.
The amendment also establishes a Senate, expected to include 25 to 30 members. This new body will draw from the experience of former national leaders and senior security officials, such as ex-presidents, past heads of the National Assembly, former Constitutional Court presidents, and retired chiefs of staff.
According to the reform, the Senate’s primary role will be to help “guide political life and uphold national unity, democracy, and peace.”
The chamber will also be able to request a second review of laws approved by the National Assembly, except in cases involving financial legislation.
The proposal passed with 90 votes in favor and 19 against, surpassing the four-fifths majority required for constitutional amendments.
