Vice President of Benin facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Vice President of Benin
Flag of Benin
Incumbent Mariam Chabi Talata since 24 May 2021
Appointer	Direct popular vote (two rounds if necessary)
Term length	5 years
Constituting instrument	Constitution of Benin
Formation	November 2019
First holder	Sourou-Migan Apithy

The Vice President of Benin is a very important political leader in the country of Benin. This person is the second-highest official, right after the President. The job of Vice President was created in 2019. This happened when changes were made to the Constitution of Benin, which is like the rulebook for the country.

The Vice President is chosen by the people of Benin. They are elected at the same time as the President. This means voters pick both leaders together in a special election.

Role of the Vice President

The main reason the Vice President position was created was to make sure the country always has a leader. If something happens to the President and they can no longer do their job, the Vice President steps in. This helps keep the government stable and running smoothly.

Besides being ready to take over, the President can also ask the Vice President to help with other tasks. This means the Vice President might work on special projects or represent the country in different ways.

History of the Vice Presidency

The role of Vice President in Benin has changed over time. Before 2019, the country had a Vice President position in its earlier history, when it was known as Dahomey.

Vice Presidents of Dahomey

When Benin was called Dahomey, there were also leaders who held the title of Vice President. These leaders played a key role in the early years after the country gained its independence.

Image	Office holder	Took office	Left office	Notes
	Sourou-Migan Apithy	1 August 1960	1963	First Vice President of Dahomey.
	Justin Ahomadégbé-Tomêtin	January 1964	November 1965	Served during a period of political change.

Vice Presidents of Benin (Modern Era)

The current position of Vice President was officially brought back in November 2019. This was part of a plan to make the government stronger and ensure a clear line of succession.

Image	Office holder	Took office	Left office	President	Image	Notes
	Mariam Chabi Talata	24 May 2021	present	Patrice Talon		The first Vice President under the 2019 constitutional changes.

See also

• Benin
  • Politics of Benin
  • President of Benin