Cotonou - The opposition to Gen Mathieu Kerekou, the head of state, has won a majority in the national assembly in general elections in the west African state of Benin, according to results given by an independent national election commission last night.

The opposition led by former president, Mr Nicephore Soglo's Renaissance of Benin won 43 of the 83 seats in the National Assembly, the electoral commission said after the ballot count was completed.