
Benin votes Sunday for a new president as outgoing leader Patrice Talon steps down after two terms. Eight million eligible voters will choose between two candidates: finance minister Romuald Wadagni of the governing alliance and former teacher Paul Hounkpe. The main opposition party failed to secure ballot access. Wadagni is favored, backed by Talon. Key issues include sustaining economic growth, security threats from armed groups in the north, and government accountability.