Togo has postponed its legislative elections to April 29th, citing the need for consultations regarding a controversial constitutional reform. Originally scheduled for April 20th, the delay comes amid opposition claims that the reform is an attempt to extend President Faure Gnassingbe’s tenure.
The constitutional amendment in question has sparked debate over President Gnassingbe’s rule, who has been in power since 2005 following his father’s three-decade-long reign. Opposition parties have voiced concerns over the reform, which allows the National Assembly to elect the president “without debate.”
While the government has denied opposition parties a permit for street protests against the reform, tensions remain high. The opposition, led by the National Alliance for Change (ANC), plans to proceed with protests despite the ban on street demonstrations since 2022.
Also Read: 2024: Africa’s Year of 20 Elections
In response to the upcoming elections and the political climate, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has deployed a Fact-Finding Mission to Togo. Led by Maman Sambo Sidikou, the mission aims to assess the pre-election environment and ensure compliance with democratic principles.
During its visit from April 15th to 20th, the mission will engage with various stakeholders, including state institutions, political parties, civil society organisations, and the media. The delegation will submit its findings and recommendations to ECOWAS Commission President Omar Alieu Touray, who will decide on further actions, including the possible deployment of an Election Observation Mission.
As Togo navigates political tensions and prepares for the upcoming elections, the involvement of regional bodies like ECOWAS underscores the importance of ensuring free, fair, and transparent electoral processes in the region.
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