Benin’s main opposition party barred from 2026 presidential race

In the West African republic of Bénin, the constitutional court has ruled to exclude the principal opposition party, Les Démocrates, from participating in the upcoming 2026 presidential election.

The decision, delivered on 27 October, follows the earlier rejection of the party’s candidacy by the electoral commission for failing to meet requirements such as sufficient sponsorship and payment of the registration fee.

With Les…