A week after his inauguration, President Romuald Wadagni has already structured his first presidential circle. Blending technical expertise with symbolic appointments, the new Head of State is laying the groundwork for a seven-year term centered on discipline and broad representation.

Sworn in on May 24, 2026, President Romuald Wadagni has moved swiftly to assemble a team of seasoned technocrats and senior officials. Within just eight days, a series of decrees outlined the framework of a presidential cabinet designed to tackle the challenges of the next seven years. Upon closer inspection, this structure strikes a delicate balance: maintaining technical excellence while reinforcing the security apparatus around the presidency. The carefully selected profiles—combining experienced figures and historically significant appointments—underscore a governance approach rooted in method, while also integrating unifying symbols.

Captain Elvire Toupé: The president’s historic right hand

The appointment of Captain Elvire Toupé as the president’s aide-de-camp marks a historic first for Bénin. As the first woman to hold this strategic position since the country’s independence in 1960, she shatters a long-standing glass ceiling within the Bénin Armed Forces (FAB). The aide-de-camp role is far from ceremonial; it is the president’s constant shadow, managing security agendas, access control, and the coordination of close protection around the clock. Beyond the symbolic gesture echoing the legendary Amazons, Captain Toupé’s appointment highlights the excellence and competence of a career officer within the military hierarchy, paving the way for women to assume sovereign and high-responsibility roles.

General Bertin Bada: Aerial expertise at the heart of security

By decree N° 2026-324 dated May 28, 2026, General Bertin Bada, an air force commander, has been appointed to lead the President’s Defense and Security Council. This role demands a deep understanding of geopolitical issues and regional threats. By selecting the former Chief of Military Cabinet under his predecessor, President Romuald Wadagni ensures a contemporary strategic vision and mastery of surveillance systems. General Bada will oversee the coordination of national defense policies and guide presidential decisions on territorial protection. His appointment underscores that security remains a top priority for the current administration.

Fiacre Vidjingninou: The new conductor of presidential communication

Appointed Director of Presidential Communication by decree N° 2026-325 dated May 28, 2026, Fiacre Vidjingninou now serves as the executive’s official voice. A renowned media expert with extensive knowledge of both national and international media landscapes, he will shape the image of the Wadagni presidency. Amidst the challenges of the digital era and the need for greater transparency, the new director will develop a dynamic information strategy, manage press relations, and ensure coherence in government communication. His role is pivotal in fostering trust between the highest echelons of the state and Bénin’s citizens.

General Djimon Dieudonné Tévoèdjrè: Continuity in service of the state

By decree N° 2026-323 dated May 28, 2026, Brigadier General Djimon Dieudonné Tévoèdjrè has been reappointed as Commander of the Republican Guard. This decision reflects the total confidence President Romuald Wadagni places in this seasoned military leader. Responsible for the president’s close protection, as well as the security of official personalities and republican institutions, General Tévoèdjrè embodies stability within the government. His mission demands constant vigilance, rigorous discipline, and unwavering loyalty. Under his leadership, the Republican Guard will continue modernizing its intervention tactics and securing sensitive sites around the Head of State.

Gaston Dossouhoui and Modeste Kérékou: The political affairs duo

By decree N° 2026-328 dated May 28, 2026, Gaston Cossi Dossouhoui and Modeste Tihounté Kérékou have joined the presidency as Special Advisors on Political Affairs. This appointment brings together two seasoned profiles, deeply familiar with the realities on the ground and current dynamics in Bénin. Their role involves acting as sensors and facilitators for the president among political forces, civil society, and local authorities. In a seven-year term poised for challenges, this duo will aim to ease tensions, strengthen the regime’s political base, and ensure that reforms initiated by the president align with the expectations of the people.

Colonel Major Chahounka: The strategic military interface

Colonel Major Mètohokan Gabin Abel Chahounka has been appointed Head of the President’s Military Cabinet by decree N° 2026-322 dated May 28, 2026. This pivotal role ensures the permanent link between the Head of State, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, the Ministry of Defense, and the General Staff. The new appointee will oversee the efficient transmission of presidential orders, monitor ongoing operations, and manage the administrative affairs of military personnel attached to the presidency. His technical expertise and administrative rigor will be invaluable in guaranteeing operational efficiency and the responsiveness of the state’s security apparatus.