The institutions of Benin

The President of the Republic is both Head of State and Head of Government, elected by direct universal suffrage.

Ministers appointed by the President of the Republic carry out national policy in their respective fields.

Members of Parliament, elected by direct universal suffrage, pass laws, approve taxation and scrutinise the Government.

Created by the 2025 constitutional revision, the Senate contributes to institutional stability and to the legislative process.

The highest court in constitutional matters rules on the constitutionality of laws and guarantees fundamental rights.

The highest court in administrative and judicial matters, it ensures consistent case law across all courts.

The court with jurisdiction to try the President and members of the Government for acts committed in office.

The supreme audit institution for public finances, created by the 2019 constitutional revision.

The regulatory authority that guarantees press freedom and oversees media ethics.

The advisory assembly that gives its opinion on economic and social bills and decrees.

The body that prepares, organises and supervises elections, enshrined in the Constitution since 2019.

Benin has 77 municipalities across 12 departments. Each is run by a municipal council and a mayor.