Joint statement by ECOWAS And United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) ON Benin’s Post-Electoral Situation

 The Economic Community of West African States and the Office of the United Nations for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) are closely monitoring the political situation in Benin, particularly in the aftermath of the parliamentary elections of 28 April 2019.

ECOWAS and UNOWAS express their deep concern at developments that led to acts of violence since 28 April 2019 in Benin.

In that regard, national authorities, political parties, religious and traditional leaders, civil society organisations and the Benin people were urged to embrace peace and jointly ensure that all electoral grievances are handled in an inclusive, lawful, and peaceful manner. This will foster reconciliation among political stakeholders and maintain stability at national and regional levels. 

ECOWAS and UNOWAS urge in particular the government and major political parties, their leaders and supporters to use dialogue in finding lasting solution for their differences, in keeping with the recommendations that ensued from the consultations held in Benin during the recently concluded high-level missions to Cotonou fielded by ECOWAS and UNOWAS representatives, from 3 to 6 March 2019, 14 March 2019 and 18 to 20 March 2019, respectively.

ECOWAS and UNOWAS commend Benin’s long tradition of democracy and urge all stakeholders to sustain the country’s democratic feats in order to protect the image of the country and the region.

ECOWAS and UNOWAS will continue to support all measures taken for peaceful resolution of grievances among the parties.