T ogo is set to hold its first-ever senatorial elections on Saturday, a pivotal moment in the nation’s political history. However, the vote comes amid strong opposition, with critics arguing that the new constitutional reforms could entrench President Faure Gnassingbé’s hold on power indefinitely.
The reforms, spearheaded by Gnassingbé’s ruling party, Union for the Republic (UNIR), have drawn widespread condemnation from opposition parties and civil society organizations, who describe the changes as a “constitutional coup d’état.”
Power Shift: A Presidency Without Power?
Under the new constitution, Togo will transition to a parliamentary system, eliminating direct presidential elections. Instead, the presidency will become a largely ceremonial role, with executive power shifting to the president of the Council of Ministers—a position currently held by Gnassingbé himself.
Opposition groups warn that this move could extend Gnassingbé’s rule indefinitely, despite previous constitutional limits. Gnassingbé has led the nation of nine million people since 2005, taking over from his father, who ruled for 38 years before him.
Opposition Boycott and Electoral Controversy
While the Alliance of Democrats for Integral Development (ADDI) has opted to participate in Saturday’s elections, several major opposition parties, including the National Alliance for Change (ANC) and the Democratic Forces for the Republic (FDR), are boycotting the vote in protest.
Critics argue that the Senate’s composition overwhelmingly favors the ruling party. Of its 61 seats, only 41 will be elected by regional and municipal councillors, while the remaining 20 will be appointed by the president of the Council of Ministers—the very role now controlled by Gnassingbé.
Delayed Elections and Allegations of Fraud
Originally scheduled for February 2, the elections were postponed by two weeks, with officials citing the need for more time for political preparations. However, opposition voices claim the delay was a tactic to strengthen the ruling party’s position.
Last April, Gnassingbé’s UNIR party won the legislative elections, which critics dismissed as an “electoral heist” riddled with allegations of fraud and manipulation.
As Togo moves forward with its Senate elections, the political landscape remains tense, with opposition factions vowing to resist what they see as an attempt to cement one-family rule in the West African nation.
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