In a message released by outgoing President Patrice Talon on May 21, 2026, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Benin for the demanding journey undertaken together over the past decade, highlighting the challenges overcome, reforms implemented, and major projects launched to strengthen the state and prioritize public action for socioeconomic development.
Here is the full text of his address:
My dear fellow citizens,
This Sunday, May 24, 2026, our elected President, Romuald Wadagni, will be sworn in, formally assuming the responsibilities of leading our nation toward greater progress and collective and individual well-being.
To him, I extend my sincerest wishes for success in the important mission that awaits him over the next seven years.
As I prepare to leave office, I want to thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I am deeply proud of the journey we have undertaken together over the past decade—a journey filled with challenges, reforms, and transformative projects aimed at strengthening our nation and aligning public action with its socioeconomic development.
This path was not always easy. Often, it was fraught with obstacles, but those very challenges gave it meaning and fueled our determination.
Today, as the world watches with admiration, we can see how far we have come. Our efforts and sacrifices are gradually bearing fruit. This is the collective achievement of all Beninese citizens—those in urban centers, rural areas, and the diaspora, young and old alike.
Serving as the leader of this remarkable journey has been an immense honor for me. My gratitude to Benin and to each of you knows no bounds.
With you as my witness, I would like to acknowledge the invaluable role of a remarkable woman who stood by me with unwavering affection and patience, whose guidance was instrumental in this journey. I am referring to Mrs. Claudine Gbénagnon Kpoviessi, wife of Talon, to whom I extend my deepest gratitude.
I also express my heartfelt appreciation to all those who surrounded me with love, friendship, and support—each contributing to the best of my abilities.
As I hand over the reins to President Romuald Wadagni, I am confident that under his leadership, our nation will make even greater strides toward fulfilling its destiny as a great and prosperous country.
With the achievements we have already made and an unshakable determination to go further, I am certain that together, we will rally around him to advance the supreme interests of Benin, conquering new frontiers of progress that bring well-being, pride, and prosperity to all.
Long live the Republic!
Long live Benin!
Comments