Benin’s election preparations have entered a crucial phase as the National Autonomous Electoral Commission (CENA) has validated the lists of five political parties ahead of the January 11, 2026 legislative elections.

CENA announced the approved parties on Monday, December 1, following a comprehensive technical, legal, and administrative assessment of all submissions. The commission, led by Sacca Lafia, says the evaluation uncovered no major irregularities, allowing all qualified parties to advance to the next stage.

With the candidate lists now confirmed, Benin moves closer to a highly anticipated legislative contest that will help shape the country’s political landscape in 2026.