Benin's opposition candidate Paul Hounkpe conceded defeat to frontrunner Romuald Wadagni on Monday following the country's presidential election.
France24 reported that Hounkpe suffered a bruising election loss after officially acknowledging Wadagni's victory. The concession follows the presidential contest held on Sunday.
The transition of power
Wadagni entered the race as the overwhelming favorite. He secured the endorsement of outgoing President Patrice Talon, who is handing over power.
As the former finance minister, Wadagni oversaw a decade of economic growth in Benin. His candidacy relied heavily on this economic track record and the support of the ruling party.
Supporters of the ruling party's candidate gathered in Lokossa for rallies in the days leading up to the vote, according to reports from the scene.