Former Beninese President Boni Yayi broke his silence after the announcement of the results of the April 12 presidential election. The septuagenarian published a lengthy message on his social media channels in which he offered his "fatherly and republican congratulations" to Romuald Wadagni on his election to the highest office.

"Our country today aspires to a new impetus based on inclusion and appeasement."

He invites him to work towards national reconciliation and the strengthening of political dialogue.

“I hope that your mandate will focus on restoring lasting national cohesion and unity, rebuilding the democratic foundations of our Republic, and rigorously upholding the principles of fairness, justice, and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. Our country, committed to its democratic values, now aspires to a new impetus based on inclusion, appeasement, and credibility. In this regard, strengthening national dialogue, an essential condition for living together and peace, must be a central pillar of your actions,” urged Boni Yayi.

"To facilitate the return of all sons and daughters of the country and to free people detained in a political context"  

The native of Tchaourou also expressed the wish that "appropriate measures (be) considered in order to promote the return of all the sons and daughters of the country, as well as the release of people detained in a political context, with a view to restoring a climate of trust conducive to national reconciliation."

Boni Yayi did not ignore the security situation in the sub-region. He called for "the consolidation of a sacred union around the security challenges facing (the Beninese population) and the sub-region, while respecting national and regional balances."

For him, "Benin is expected by both its citizens and its partners to be an actor of stability, credibility, and progress." Finally, the former leader wished President-elect Romuald Wadagni every success in fulfilling his mission in service to the nation.