ECOWAS condemns pre-election violence in Benin
Cotonou, Benin (PANA) - The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Thursday condemned the pre-election violence recorded in some areas of Benin a few days before the country's presidential election on 11 April .
"ECOWAS condemns this violence prejudicial to peace, necessary for the holding of a credible, transparent and peaceful election in Benin. It calls on all stakeholders in the electoral process to refrain from any recourse to violence and to favor the remedies provided for by the legal provisions in force… ,” said a press release from the regional body.
ECOWAS expressed its compassion and solidarity with the affected families as well as the government and people of Benin.
"Since the early hours of Tuesday, 6 April, 2021, announced peaceful marches have gradually turned into violent demonstrations in several cities of the country with destruction of public and private property and obstacles to the free movement of people and goods," deplored the sub-regional institution which is following with great interest the ongoing electoral process.
Beninese are expected to vote on Sunday to elect the successor to Patrice Talon, invested on 6 April, 2016, for a five-year term renewable only once.
His mandate was extended by 45 days, under provisions of the amended law challenged by the opposition which called for peaceful protests.
Three pairs of candidates were selected to participate in the electoral consultation on 11 April.
These are the duets Patrice Talon-Mariama Talata, Kohoué Corentin-Irené Agossa and Soumanou Alassane Dimba-Paul Hounkpè.
In the opinion of several observers, the outgoing president’s duo are favorites in this election.
-0- PANA IT/IS/KND/RA 8Apr2021
