Stake News Check #22 from 1/16/2026 to 1/29/2026 Africa: Elections, Political Transitions, and Diplomatic Realignments
Over recent weeks, political and diplomatic developments across Africa have been marked by several significant events. In Benin, the January 2026 legislative elections resulted in a National Assembly composed exclusively of parties supporting President Patrice Talon, namely the Progressive Union for Renewal and the Republican Bloc, as opposition parties failed to reach the electoral threshold required to secure parliamentary seats. [1]
In the Sahel, In the Sahel, heavy gunfire and loud explosions were reported overnight from Wednesday to Thursday near Niamey International Airport, where air defense systems are believed to have intercepted unidentified projectiles, possibly drones. The area, which hosts several strategic military installations, saw a significant security deployment before calm returned after approximately two hours. Authorities stated that the situation was under control without providing further details, and no official information was released regarding the origin of the incidents or the possible existence of casualties.[2]
Meanwhile, Niger welcomed a new ambassador from the Russian Federation, amid strengthened bilateral cooperation, particularly in the security and economic fields. Previously, Russia’s ambassador to Niger was based in Mali. However, in August last year, President Vladimir Putin appointed Viktor Voropayev as Russia’s ambassador to Niamey, Niger’s capital. Voropayev officially took up his post on Thursday. [3]
Meanwhile, the African Union announced the lifting of sanctions imposed on Guinea following the 2021 coup d’état, after the holding of a presidential election in December. The organization’s Peace and Security Council considers this vote a major step in the political transition. Mamady Doumbouya, elected with 86.7% of the vote according to the Supreme Court, was sworn in as president, and Guinea was reinstated in the African Union’s activities after more than four years of suspension.[4]
In Nigeria, military authorities stated that several officers will face judicial proceedings for their alleged involvement in a coup plot targeting President Bola Tinubu in 2024, which the government had initially denied.Shortly after denying the alleged coup plot, Tinubu reshuffled the country’s top military brass. Investigations has identified several officers with allegations of plotting to overthrow the government.[5]
Finally, in Uganda, incumbent President Yoweri Museveni was declared the winner of the presidential election with more than 70% of the vote, according to electoral authorities. The vote took place in a tense climate, marked by an internet shutdown and allegations of fraud raised by the opposition led by Bobi Wine. The authorities rejected these claims as Yoweri Museveni begins a seventh term after nearly four decades in power. [6]
Sources
1 Benin
2 Niger
3 Niger
4 Guinea
5 Nigeria
6 Uganda