Benin Election: Candidate Promises Enhanced Security in Northern Border Towns

Romuald Wadagni, candidate in Benin's presidential election, plans to establish municipal police forces in northern towns to combat jihadist attacks. As finance minister, he stresses collaboration with neighboring countries for security. The initiative aims to train locals, amid recent violence and thwarted coup attempts against President Patrice Talon.

Romuald Wadagni, the ruling party's candidate in the presidential election in Benin, has pledged to enhance security by creating municipal police forces in northern border towns facing attacks from jihadist groups. As the finance minister under President Patrice Talon, Wadagni also emphasized regional cooperation to tackle increasing insurgent activity on Benin's borders with Niger and Nigeria.

Wadagni discussed his security strategy while unveiling his political agenda for the forthcoming April 12 election, where he is a leading contender. Although the national Republican Police is already stationed in the north alongside military personnel, Wadagni did not disclose specific targets for the number of municipal officers or the budget for this initiative.

In addition to addressing security issues, Wadagni faces the challenge of continuing Talon's economic reforms while ensuring safety in the northern regions. Incidents linked to jihadist violence remain off the government's comments, as evidenced by April's deadly attack on soldiers. A recent coup attempt and regional cooperation underscore the urgency of Wadagni's proposed security measures.

(With inputs from agencies.)