Cotonou — The Economic and Social Council (CES) of the Republic of Benin installed the bureau of its new term on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, marking a significant institutional milestone. Conrad Gbaguidi was elected First Vice-President of the institution and, under the terms of Law No. 2026-13 amending the organic law of the CES, automatically assumes the role of Mediator of the Republic, following a recent reform assigning this duty to the holder of this position.
Mr. Gbaguidi succeeds Pascal Essou, who previously served as Mediator of the Republic. The reform, adopted by the National Assembly, has significantly restructured the institutional framework of the country, integrating the missions of the Mediator of the Republic into the Economic and Social Council, to be exercised henceforth by its First Vice-President. The stated objective of this reform is to strengthen institutional coherence while preserving existing administrative services.
Conrad Gbaguidi, who has led the CES since February 2025 as its President, guided the institution through its initial months of operation prior to this reorganization. His extensive experience in institutional affairs and his in-depth knowledge of ongoing matters have contributed to establishing his legitimacy within the newly formed bureau.
In his new capacity as Mediator of the Republic, Mr. Gbaguidi will be entrusted with receiving citizens’ complaints regarding the functioning of public administration, facilitating the amicable resolution of disputes between citizens and public services, and contributing to strengthening dialogue between the State and its citizens.
The installation of the new CES bureau opens a new chapter for the institution, with the integration of the Mediator’s mandate expanding its scope of action and reinforcing its role within Benin’s institutional landscape.
The Secretariat of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Ombudsman Association (OICOA) extends its warm congratulations to Mr. Conrad Gbaguidi on his appointment as Mediator of the Republic of Benin, and wishes him continued success in his new responsibilities, which embody the shared values and mission of ombudsman institutions worldwide in fostering justice, dialogue, and citizen trust.
