Jonathan praises Benin Republic's new president Yesterday

– Ex-president Goodluck Jonathan has spoken out
about the recent election in Benin
– Jonathan praised the outgoing leader Boni Yayi for
respecting the will of the people
– Benin’s new president is multi-millionaire
businessman Patrice Talon
Former president Goodluck Jonathan has released a
statement about the presidential recent election the
Benin Republic.
On his Facebook page, Jonathan praised the conduct of
the election and the role of the administration of
outgoing president Boni Yayi.
“Having followed the elections in the Republic of Benin very
closely, I am very impressed with the orderly manner with
which the administration of President Boni Yayi conducted
those polls,” Jonathan said.
“They were adjudged peaceful, credible and transparent by
local and international observers and President Yayi
deserves commendation for providing the leadership that
led to this outcome.”
Jonathan praised Benin’s outgoing president for
respecting the people, as he did
Jonathan praised the Beninese people for their
behvaiour during the election campaign, describing
them as an example to the world of African democracy.
“I also congratulate the people of the Republic of Benin for
their role in the election and for showing the world that the
Republic of Benin and its citizens have come of age in the
practice of democracy,” the former president said.
I especially wish to appreciate the incumbent Prime
Minister of the Republic of Benin, Mr Lionel Zinsou, who
was a candidate for president, for his exemplary conduct of
conceding defeat and congratulating the choice of the
people, Mr Patrice Talon, on his victory at the polls.
“Such a gesture by Prime Minister Zinsou is rare and
should be applauded by all statesmen as the highest display
of patriotism and maturity.”
Patrice Talon made his millions in the cotton trade
Zinsou has joined Jonathan as one of the few African
leaders who respected the respective wills of their
people and stood down after losing an election.
The winner of the presidential election, cotton magnate
and businessman Patrice Talon, won with over 65% of
the vote and Jonathan was full of praise for Benin’s new
leader.
“I congratulate Mr Patrice Talon on his victory and wish
him a successful and peaceful tenure after his swearing in
even as I urge that there should be no victor or vanquished
in this process,” Jonathan said.
“All the Beninoise people are winners and have cause to be
proud of their nation.”