Bénin: razacki amouda issifou assumes ombudsman role following key reform

Razacki Amouda Issifou has officially become the new Ombudsman of the Republic of Bénin. His ascent to this significant office follows the parliamentary approval of an amendment to the law governing this institution, which took place on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.

Under the revised framework, the responsibilities of the Médiateur de la République are now automatically assumed by the first vice-president of the Economic and Social Council (CES). This reform effectively discontinues the previous system of direct appointment.

As the current first vice-president of the CES, Razacki Amouda Issifou naturally steps into this esteemed position. He succeeds Pascal Essou, who had held the office since 2021. This pivotal institutional shift received the full backing of parliamentarians during a plenary session at the National Assembly, marking a further step in the ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of the Republic’s institutions.

Razacki Amouda Issifou brings a wealth of public service expertise to his new role. A jurist by training, his distinguished career includes serving as a former vice-president of the Constitutional Court. He has also held positions as a deputy, president of the National Assembly’s Law Commission, mayor, and secretary-general of the inaugural National Autonomous Electoral Commission (CENA) in 1996.

The Médiateur de la République plays a vital role in fostering harmonious relations between citizens and public administration. Its core mission involves facilitating the amicable resolution of disputes, particularly when individuals believe they have been unfairly treated in their interactions with state services.