Former president of Benin Republic, Boni Yayi has ruled out his decision for the presidency, in the upcoming presidential poll, saying he was only available as an elder to help ensure peace, stability and democracy in the country.

Yayi made this known in a video message on Friday, stressing the need for dialogue within candidates.

It was learnt that the former president who served between 2006 and 2016 was considering a run for the presidency.

Despite Benin’s constitution prohibiting any former president who has already served two terms from returning to power, Mr. Yayi was still rumored to be on the ballot.

The ruling party has picked Romuald Wadagni, the current minister of finance to replace outgoing president Patrice Talon.

There was concern that Talon would attempt to change the constitution in order to seek a third term.

The west African country will vote for a new president in April 2026.