Thomas Boni Yayi

ModernPoliticianBenin1952 — ?

Beninese president and AU chairman.

Compare Thomas Boni Yayi with another historical figure:

Quick Facts

Born

1952

Country

Benin

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)30

Political (20%)63

Influence (20%)55

Legacy (20%)43

Leadership (15%)68

Strategy (15%)40

Total Score51.0

Thomas Boni Yayi — Complete Timeline

2006 AD

Elected President of BeninPolitical Action

Thomas Boni Yayi won the 2006 presidential election as an independent candidate, succeeding Mathieu K

ElectionDemocracyBenin

Impact: nationalconstructive

2007 AD

Survived assassination attemptPolitical Action◆ Major

Boni Yayi survived an assassination attempt in March 2007 when his convoy was ambushed near the village of Ikemon. The attack, attributed to political opponents, resulted in casualties among his security detail but left the president unharmed.

Assassination AttemptSecurityBenin

Impact: nationaltragic

2011 AD

Constitutional term limit controversyPolitical Action◆ Major

Boni Yayi sought and won a second term in 2011, but his attempt to change the constitution to allow a third term in 2014 sparked widespread protests and political crisis. He ultimately abandoned the plan, preserving Benin's democratic reputation.

Term LimitsConstitutional CrisisProtests

Impact: nationaldestructive

2012 AD

Served as Chairman of the African UnionPolitical Action◆ Major

Boni Yayi served as Chairman of the African Union for one year from January 2012 to January 2013. During his tenure, he focused on promoting peace and security, including efforts to resolve conflicts in Mali and the Sahel region.

African UnionChairmanshipDiplomacy

Impact: regionalconstructive