Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Cotonou (Fides Service)- “Contrary to all forecasts the election was proof the good health of Benin’s democracy compared to situations in other countries of Africa” says Fr Jean-Raphaël Marie Tonoudji of the congregation of the Immaculate Conception commenting presidential elections in Benin held in two rounds 5 March and 19 March. On 29 March the constitutional court announced the results and the election of Thomas Yayi Boni as new head of state. In the second round Boni won 76.40% of the votes beating Adrien Houngbédji former National Assembly president.
“International observers said the elections were transparent and regular” says Fr. Tonoudji. “A demonstration of the lack of tension after the results were announced, was that during a press conference Houngbédji the loser congratulated Boni the winner”.
The local Church accompanied the electoral campaign with prayers in parishes, recitation of the rosary and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. On 11 February, the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, a Mass was said for the nation and all the candidates for presidency were present. The mass was presided by Cardinal Bernardin Gantin and concelebrated by the president of the Benin Bishops’ Conference and about twenty priests. “The Mass was broadcast live by local Radio Immaculée Conception, diffusing tranquillity and comfort” said Fr. Tonoudji. On the eve of the vote the Bishops called on political leaders and institutions and electors to vote according to conscience and in view of the common good.
Radio Immaculée Conception organised special programmes to prepare electors in live link with listeners to comment a Pastoral Letter in which the Bishops urged the people of Benin to act for the good of the country. Radio programmes and other initiatives in parishes helped people understand the importance of voting. “The role of the Catholic Church for the success of the election was recognised by all the people and was a motive of pride for Benin Catholics” said Fr. Tonoudji. “These elections confirmed the fact that the Catholic Church can still play a role in the shaping the conscience of citizens of every faith”.
President Thomas Yayi Boni will take office on 6 April. He was born in 1952 at Tchaourou in northern Benin of Muslim parents. ThomasYayi Boni later became a Protestant Christian. He has a degree in economy and has held major posts in the Bank of the Economic Community of West Africa BCEAO. In 1994 he was elected president of the West Africa Development Bank BOAD. A newcomer to politics he presented an electoral campaign focussed on reform and fight against corruption.
On 8 April Cardinale Gantin will preside a Mass of thanksgiving to which the new president and the other candidates have been invited. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 3/4/2006 righe 45 parole 546)
