The institutional landscape of Bénin is poised for a monumental transformation. Members of Bénin’s inaugural Senate convened for a closed-door session lasting nearly two hours this Friday, July 24, at the Sofitel Hôtel in Cotonou. Discussions centered on finalizing the protocol and organizational details ahead of the official installation ceremony, scheduled for Thursday, July 30, at the Palais des Gouverneurs in Porto-Novo.

Upholding chamber autonomy for separation of powers

In the absence of the eldest member, former President Nicéphore Dieudonné Soglo, the proceedings of this foundational working session were guided by former bâtonnier Me Robert Dossou. The esteemed legal professional underscored a core principle governing the new upper chamber’s organization:

« It is the chamber itself that orchestrates its installation, adhering to the principle of the separation of powers. Allowing the Executive to prepare our installation would not be appropriate, » affirmed Me Robert Dossou.

To ensure a fully structured and prepared body for the July 30 milestone, the senators agreed to hold several additional consultative meetings in the coming days.

A powerful image: Talon and Boni Yayi among 23 senators present

Out of the 25 individuals designated to form this new institution, a direct outcome of recent constitutional revisions, 23 senators were in attendance.

A particularly striking and symbolic moment emerged during the gathering: the joint presence of former Presidents of the Republic Patrice Talon and Thomas Boni Yayi, seated together alongside other prominent figures from Bénin’s political and parliamentary spheres.

Only two absences were noted: that of the eldest member, Nicéphore Soglo (who had initiated the convocation), and former minister Sacca Lafia.

Setting sights on July 30 in Porto-Novo

The operationalization of the Senate, a direct result of recent constitutional reforms, marks the definitive establishment of bicameralism in Bénin. From July 30 onwards, this new chamber, destined to play a pivotal role in the legislative framework of the Fifth Republic, will officially commence its duties in the political capital, signifying a significant stride forward for Béninese democracy.