Catholic bishops appeal for calm ahead of Benin’s 2026 elections

ACI Africa, Jan 18, 2025 / 07:00 am (CNA).

Members of the Episcopal Conference of Benin (CEB) have appealed for calm ahead of the West African country’s 2026 general elections.

In a statement issued at the end of their four-day plenary assembly that ended Jan. 10, Benin’s Catholic bishops said that diversity in opinions should be a “source of strength” for the country’s democracy and called for unity amid what they describe as “diverse interests and political differences in the country.”

“As our country heads towards the general elections of 2026, the bishops of Benin once again make an urgent appeal for the political atmosphere to be eased,” they said in their statement shared with ACI Africa, CNA’s news partner in Africa, on Jan. 14.

“Diversity of opinions and parties should never be a source of division, but rather a source of strength for our democracy,” CEB members added. “Indeed, beyond partisan interests and political differences, what unites us as Beninese people is much stronger than what could divide us.”

Scheduled for April 2026, Benin’s general elections are to include municipal, legislative, and presidential votes. Presidential candidates must submit their applications by October 2025, six months before the election.

President Patrice Talon, currently serving his second and final constitutional term, has reportedly said that he does not intend to amend the constitution to seek reelection.

Benin’s Catholic bishops have urged political leaders, opinion-makers, and all Beninese citizens to commit themselves resolutely to a spirit of sincere dialogue, mutual listening, and national reconciliation.

In their latest statement, they stressed the importance of a climate of peace and trust, which they say is essential to guarantee the smooth running of the country’s planned elections.

“This climate must be underpinned by inclusive governance and fair management of electoral processes so that everyone feels part of the construction of our common future,” they said, inviting everyone, whatever their position or political affiliation, “to demonstrate great responsibility and sincere commitment to serving the supreme interest of the nation.”

Reminding the Beninese of the country’s motto, “Fraternity, Justice, Work,” CEB members said: “This unity, rooted in our shared history and cultural heritage, is the foundation on which we must build a strong and prosperous nation.”

The bishops prayed that the peace of Christ will enlighten the hearts and guide the actions of all those in charge of the destiny of Benin.

The bishops further expressed their closeness with families bereaved by the loss of soldiers killed in the jihadist attack that took place on Jan. 8 near the triple border between Benin, Niger, and Burkina Faso.

A jihadist formation from Burkina Faso reportedly attacked the border post, killing at least 28 Beninese soldiers. The attack was claimed by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims, which is affiliated with al-Qaida.

In their collective statement, the bishops noted that the soldiers who were killed “fell at the front in the performance of their duty” and implored: “May the God of infinite mercies welcome their souls into his light and console the hearts that have been tested by this tragedy.”

Meanwhile, Benin’s bishops have expressed their concern about the growth of cybercrime in the country, which they say attracts many young people with “the promise of easy profits.”

“In their quest for easy money, many young people continue to swindle, posing a permanent threat to the security and peace of mind of our peaceful citizens,” CEB members said, expressing their “urgent call to conversion” and reminding youths in Benin that ill-gotten gains never pay off.

The Catholic Church leaders invited educators at various levels — parents, chaplains, and youth group leaders — to assume their full responsibility and to work each according to his or her charisma and specific mission so that urgent measures can be taken to save the young people, who they say are “on the road to perdition.”

The bishops also urged the country’s authorities to strengthen legal and technological measures to eradicate cybercrime while promoting digital education and the responsible use of technology.

This story was first published by ACI Africa, CNA’s news partner in Africa, and has been adapted by CNA.

Source: https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/261617/catholic-bishops-appeal-for-calm-ahead-of-benin-s-2026-elections