Togo Opposition Party Declares Boycott of Inaugural Senate Elections

The National Alliance for Change (ANC) in Togo is boycotting the country’s first senatorial elections, citing a lack of transparency and fairness after previous elections were fraught with fraud. This decision aligns with the stance of the opposition umbrella group DMP, both parties viewing the elections as part of a broader constitutional coup by President Faure Gnassingbe, who has ruled since 2005.

A prominent opposition party in Togo has announced its decision to boycott the nation’s inaugural senatorial elections set for February 2. These elections mark a significant change in governance, transitioning from universal suffrage for the presidency to a parliamentary system, underpinned by a controversial new constitution. The opposition alleges that this constitutional change is an attempt by President Faure Gnassingbe to secure ongoing power.

Togo, a small West African nation with a population of approximately 8.8 million, has been under President Faure Gnassingbe’s rule since 2005. He succeeded his father, who held power for nearly four decades. The changes to the electoral process, including the introduction of a Senate, are viewed with skepticism by opposition leaders and civil society, who argue that previous elections were marred by fraud. Political dissent has been stifled, with rallies banned since 2022, further complicating the situation for the opposition.

The opposition’s refusal to participate in the upcoming senatorial elections underscores widespread dissatisfaction with the current political climate in Togo. Civil society and political leaders continue to express concerns regarding electoral integrity, pointing to government actions as efforts to undermine democracy. The situation raises questions about the future of political opposition and governance in Togo under the existing regime.

Original Source: www.barrons.com