Togo Conducts First Senatorial Elections Amid Opposition Boycotts

Togo held its first senatorial elections on Saturday amid boycotts from opposition parties who denounce the new constitution as a means for President Faure Gnassingbe to maintain power. The constitutional changes have elevated the role of the Council of Ministers while diminishing presidential authority. Despite these tensions, elections took place with various groups expressing differing responses to the legitimacy of the process.

On Saturday, Togo conducted its inaugural senatorial elections, a move met with resistance from opposition parties amid concerns regarding President Faure Gnassingbe’s potential to extend his power. Various opposition groups have chosen to boycott the elections, condemning the parliamentary reforms as illegitimate. The recent constitutional changes have transformed the presidential role into a largely ceremonial position, transferring significant authority to the president of the Council of Ministers, currently held by Gnassingbe, who has maintained leadership since 2005.

With the previous constitutional framework restricting Gnassingbe to a single final presidential term, the new reforms allow for more legislative control. Over 1,500 municipal and 179 regional councilors participated to elect 41 senators from a pool of 89 candidates. Meanwhile, the remainder of the senate members will be appointed directly by President Gnassingbe.

One municipal councilor, Vimenyo Koffi, expressed the need to test the new constitution for its effectiveness, indicating a spirit of experimentation despite the controversy. The opposition group, Alliance of Democrats for Integral Development (ADDI), stated its intent to participate in the elections, contrasting with several others, including National Alliance for Change (ANC) and Democratic Forces for the Republic (FDR), that have deemed the process a constitutional coup.

The ANC denounced what it characterized as an anti-democratic method aiming to legitimize an illegitimate regime. FDR criticized the senatorial elections as a farcical vote, highlighting the costly nature of the institution against the backdrop of municipalities struggling to meet essential needs. Supporters of President Gnassingbe argue that the constitutional revisions enhance representation in the government.

Gnassingbe’s political party, the Union for the Republic, achieved significant victories in the last legislative elections, which faced allegations of extensive electoral fraud and manipulation. Opponents have framed these developments as a continuation of undemocratic practices that undermine the political landscape in Togo.

The senatorial elections in Togo unfold amidst widespread opposition and concerns regarding President Faure Gnassingbe’s grip on power. Numerous opposition parties have opted to boycott the vote, citing illegitimacy and anti-democratic intentions. The new constitutional framework alters the presidency’s role and raises questions about representation and governance amid criticisms of electoral malfeasance. This situation marks a critical moment in Togo’s political trajectory, reflecting ongoing tensions and aspirations for democracy.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com