Togo Conducts First-Ever Senate Elections Amidst Political Turmoil
Togo conducted its first senatorial elections amid opposition boycotts and claims of a rigged electoral process. While some parties, such as the ADDI, participated, others labeled the reforms as a constitutional coup. President Gnassingbe has faced backlash over his attempts to reshape the political landscape and retain power through constitutional amendments.
LOME: On Saturday, municipal and regional councilors participated in Togo’s inaugural senatorial elections, taking place amidst considerable opposition concerns regarding President Faure Gnassingbe’s potential use of a newly established constitution to maintain power indefinitely. Several opposition parties declared their intention to boycott the election, while civil society organizations have criticized the parliamentary reform as rigged in favor of the current regime.
The new constitution modifies the electoral process, substituting a direct presidential election with a parliamentary system, rendering the presidential role largely symbolic. Consequently, authority would be conferred upon the president of the Council of Ministers, a position currently occupied by Gnassingbe, who has been in power since 2005, following decades of his father’s rule.
Previously constrained by term limits, Gnassingbe was set for his final presidential election this year. In this election, over 1,500 municipal and 179 regional councilors are positioned to elect 41 out of the 61 senate members from a total of 89 candidates, with the remaining senators to be appointed by the president.
Municipal councilor Vimenyo Koffi addressed the situation, stating, “It’s a new constitution that we have never tested. We had to test it to see the sides that are not good and to appreciate the rest.” Notably, the Alliance of Democrats for Integral Development (ADDI) confirmed its participation in the elections, contrasting with other opposition parties like the National Alliance for Change (ANC) and the Democratic Forces for the Republic (FDR), which denounced the process as a “constitutional coup d’etat.”
The ANC explicitly declared its rejection of “this anti-democratic process that aims to install an illegal and illegitimate republic.” Meanwhile, the FDR criticized the upcoming Senate, calling the vote a “parody” and highlighting the financial strains on municipalities and regional entities to meet essential needs. Supporters of the president assert that constitutional amendments promote greater electoral representation, despite widespread accusations of electoral fraud associated with prior legislative elections.
In summary, Togo’s first senatorial elections are marred by significant opposition and claims of a rigged process amid fears of an unconstitutional consolidation of power by President Gnassingbe. Many opposition groups have opted to boycott the election, viewing it as a threat to democratic governance. The ruling party argues that the constitutional reforms will enhance representation, though skepticism persists regarding their legitimacy and implications for Togo’s political landscape.
In conclusion, Togo’s inaugural senatorial elections reveal deep divisions within the political landscape, marked by opposition to President Gnassingbe’s constitutional changes. The boycott by several parties underscores the perception of an illegitimate election process, while proponents insist on the reforms enhancing democratic representation. The outcome of these elections may have lasting implications for Togo’s governance and stability.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
