Togo has initiated its first senatorial elections amid outcry from opposition parties and civil society groups, who accuse President Gnassingbe of manipulating the new constitution for extended power. The constitution transforms the presidential role to ceremonial, consolidating authority with the Council of Ministers. Some opposition factions are boycotting the elections, denouncing them as illegitimate, while the governing party claims greater representation will ensue.
On Saturday, Togo commenced its inaugural senatorial elections with municipal and regional councilors casting their votes. This occasion arises amid concerns that President Faure Gnassingbe intends to exploit the newly adopted constitution to perpetuate his hold on power. Opposition factions and civil society organizations have announced their intent to boycott the elections, asserting that the parliamentary reforms are manipulated and lacking legitimacy.
The revised constitution eliminates the direct election of the president, transitioning to a parliamentary system that renders the presidential role ceremonial. Consequently, authority will shift to the president of the Council of Ministers, a position held by Gnassingbe since 2005 when he succeeded his father, who occupied leadership for 38 years.
Previously, the constitution restricted Gnassingbe to one final presidential term in an election scheduled for this year. The senatorial elections will allow over 1,500 municipal councilors and 179 regional councilors to choose 41 out of 61 senate members from among 89 candidates. The remainder of the senators will be appointed by the president of the Council of Ministers, who is currently Gnassingbe.
Municipal councilor Vimenyo Koffi remarked, “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.” Among the opposition, the Alliance of Democrats for Integral Development (ADDI) confirmed its participation, while the National Alliance for Change (ANC) and the Democratic Forces for the Republic (FDR) vocalized their decision to boycott, denouncing the election as a “constitutional coup d’etat.”
The ANC publicly rejected the “anti-democratic process” aimed at establishing an “illegal and illegitimate republic.” Furthermore, the FDR criticized the vote as a “parody,” highlighting concerns over the financial implications of establishing a Senate while local regions struggle to meet essential needs. The president’s supporters, however, argue that the constitutional amendment fosters increased representation.
Gnassingbe’s party, the Union for the Republic, gained victory in the legislative elections held in April, which opponents described as an “electoral hold-up” characterized by significant fraud.
In conclusion, Togo’s first senatorial elections have commenced amidst widespread controversy and allegations of unconstitutional maneuvers by President Gnassingbe. While some opposition parties are participating, a significant number are boycotting, labeling the process undemocratic. The newly established constitution has altered the political framework, raising concerns over its impact on governance and representation in the country.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
