The first Senate session brought together 25 members, sworn in at the National Assembly headquarters in Porto-Novo. The ceremony, led by Élisabeth Pognon—second eldest among the senators—featured a formal protocol phase, including an inaugural address and an official group photograph. Following the public segment, senators convened in private to begin their legislative duties.

In her opening remarks, Élisabeth Pognon emphasized that the Senate’s creation stems directly from the constitutional revision adopted on December 17, 2025. She highlighted its role in strengthening public institutions and fostering political stability in the country. Unlike the Constitutional Court, which interprets legal matters, the Senate holds distinct constitutional responsibilities outlined in Article 113.1. These include safeguarding national unity, reinforcing state authority, and upholding democratic values, peace, and political harmony.

The Senate’s authority extends to reviewing and approving key legislation before presidential promulgation. This includes constitutional amendments, electoral laws, and regulations governing political parties. The chamber also has the power to impose sanctions on public officials for violations of political or civic rights, as defined by the Constitution. Its 25 members—a mix of ex-officio and appointed figures, including former public officials and defense sector leaders—reflect a deliberate effort to bring experienced leadership into the legislative process.

With this inauguration, Bénin becomes the latest West African nation to adopt a bicameral system under its 1990 Constitution, a structure unseen since the document’s original implementation. The move underscores the government’s commitment to institutional reform and democratic deepening in the region.