New look, old ways? Benin's leader and the authoritarian past

President Patrice Talon of Benin, a multi-millionaire businessman who dresses in sunglasses and sharp suits, presents himself as part of a new generation of modern, finance-focused and ambitious African leaders.

Tough new eligibility criteria effectively barred opposition parties from fielding any candidates in last Sunday’s parliamentary elections. Ranked the 15th wealthiest person in sub-Saharan Africa with a fortune topping $400-million in 2015 according toAides said he was a perfectionist, keen to show he would sweep out corruption and cronyism.

Since coming to power, he is as much hated by the poor who see him as arrogant as he is admired by the elite who sees him as a visionary.The internet was shut down on polling day, which watchdogs denounced as a blatant violation of freedom of expression. For Talon it was “a referendum in all but name” on his rule, political scientist Expedit Ologou said.It is quite a contrast to Benin’s competitive elections, which it had held since leaving behind authoritarian rule almost two decades ago.This time round, only two parties — both allied to Talon — contested seats.

He is a corrupt dictator

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