The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has launched a Long-Term Election Observation Mission in Benin ahead of the country’s presidential vote set for 12 April 2026. The move comes as part of the bloc’s commitment to promoting transparent and credible elections across the region.
Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, authorised the deployment under the organisation’s legal framework, which includes the Revised Treaty of 1993, the 1999 Mechanism for Conflict Prevention and Resolution, the 2001 Additional Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, and Article 53(c) of the 2008 Conflict Prevention Framework.
Fifteen experts from ECOWAS member states will be on the ground from 22 March to 18 April, covering all regions of Benin. Their expertise spans constitutional law, political affairs, diplomacy, media, electoral operations, conflict prevention, gender and inclusion, and security matters.
The observers will monitor every stage of the electoral process, providing real-time analysis and early-warning insights to prevent and manage potential conflicts. Their findings aim to strengthen transparency, foster public trust, and encourage high voter participation.
To ensure smooth coordination, ECOWAS will set up a situation room to track developments nationwide and provide daily updates to the Commission, paving the way for the Short-Term Election Observation Mission of around 100 additional observers closer to election day.
