Benin holds parliamentary and local polls a month after foiled coup attempt

Benin held parliamentary and local elections about one month after a failed coup attempt; the main opposition was barred from local contests and faces barriers to the upcoming presidential ballot.

Benin voted on Sunday in parliamentary and local elections, held about one month after a failed coup attempt. Officials reported the December 7 mutiny was put down with military assistance from Nigeria and France. The main opposition Democrats were barred from the local polls, and the opposition has been reported as removed from the presidential ballot for failing to meet a signature requirement. President Patrice Talon, who is completing his second term and cannot run in April, cast his ballot and urged citizens to vote. Key facts: - Parliamentary and local elections took place one month after a reported coup attempt on December 7. - The main opposition Democrats were barred from the local contests and face restrictions related to signature rules for national races. - The National Assembly has 109 seats to be elected in a single-round vote. - Current electoral law requires parties to gather signatures from 20% of registered voters in each of 24 districts to stand for parliament. - Officials said polls were open with calm conditions reported in Cotonou and polling scheduled to close at 5:00 pm (0400 GMT). Summary: The election results will shape the political landscape ahead of April's presidential vote, in which President Talon is ineligible to run. Official results and any subsequent legal or administrative steps are pending.