Benin operates as a presidential republic and holds elections to determine its political representatives. Here is some information about the election system in Benin:
- Presidential Elections: The President of Benin is elected through a direct popular vote. Presidential elections are held every five years, and a candidate must receive an absolute majority (50%+1) of the votes to win in the first round. If no candidate achieves an absolute majority, a second round is held between the top two candidates.
- National Assembly Elections: The National Assembly of Benin is the country’s unicameral legislative body. It consists of 83 members who are elected through a mixed electoral system. Of the 83 seats, 77 are elected through a system of two-round voting in single-member constituencies, while six seats are reserved for Beninese citizens living abroad.
- Electoral Process: The Autonomous National Electoral Commission (CENA) is responsible for organizing and overseeing elections in Benin. It ensures the transparency and fairness of the electoral process, including voter registration, candidate nomination, and the counting of votes. International observers may be invited to monitor the elections.
- Voter Eligibility: Beninese citizens who are at least 18 years old have the right to vote. Voter registration is required, and citizens must be included in the electoral roll to participate in elections. Eligible voters can cast their ballots at designated polling stations within their respective constituencies.
- Election Results: In presidential elections, the candidate who receives the highest number of valid votes in the second round, if required, is declared the winner and assumes the presidency. In National Assembly elections, the party or coalition that secures the majority of seats forms the government.
