Leader's third term plan will mar Benin's outlook

Subject

Benin's political outlook.

Significance

Thousands took to the streets of Benin's commercial capital Conotou on December 11 in protest at the government's delaying of local elections previously scheduled for 2013. At the centre of opposition grievances is speculation that President Thomas Yayi Boni will seek a third term in office by introducing a constitutional amendment -- a move fiercely opposed by a broad range of political and civil society groups.

Impacts

• Other regional leaders (eg, Togo's) third term plans -- despite domestic opposition -- could encourage Boni to ignore popular protests.
• Membership of the Central African Franc zone, which is backed by France, will help maintain macroeconomic stability.
• Although Benin registered no Ebola cases, negative sentiment towards the wider region has exacerbated investor unease.