A leading opposition party in Togo, the ANC, has announced its boycott of the upcoming senatorial elections, scheduled for February 2, protesting against a new constitution seen as a method for President Gnassingbe to retain power. The opposition cites prior electoral fraud as evidence of a rigged system that lacks transparency and fairness, while protests against these reforms have been effectively prohibited since 2022.
A prominent opposition party in Togo has declared its intention to boycott the country’s inaugural senatorial elections scheduled for February 2. The elections are perceived as a crucial aspect of a transformation that includes the abolition of direct elections for the head of state, transitioning to a parliamentary system. This constitutional reform has drawn sharp criticism from opposition members, who argue that it is a strategy for President Faure Gnassingbe to maintain his grip on power indefinitely.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the National Alliance for Change (ANC) firmly stated its rejection of the senatorial elections. They raised concerns about the lack of transparency and fairness, citing previous legislative and regional elections that were marred by significant fraud and irregularities. Without assured conditions for equitable elections, the ANC believes these polls would be nothing more than a deceptive charade.
The ANC’s announcement follows a similar rejection by the Togolese opposition coalition known as the Dynamique pour la majorite du peuple (DMP). On Thursday, the DMP referred to the upcoming senatorial elections as part of a continuous constitutional coup d’état. This reflects a broader sentiment among opposition groups regarding the legitimacy of the electoral process under the current regime.
President Gnassingbe has been at the helm of Togo since 2005, succeeding his father, who ruled for 38 years. The ruling authorities have effectively stifled opposition protests against proposed reforms, maintaining a ban on political gatherings in Togo since 2022. Such actions have further fueled allegations of undemocratic practices and governmental overreach in the country.
The situation in Togo arises within the context of political tension surrounding the introduction of a new constitution. This constitution proposes significant changes to the electoral framework, notably abolishing direct presidential elections. Critics, predominantly from opposition parties and civil society, accuse the government of using these reforms to entrench its hold on power. The long-standing leadership of President Gnassingbe has been characterized by controversy and allegations of electoral malpractice, further complicating the political landscape in Togo.
In summary, the National Alliance for Change and other opposition groups in Togo have expressed their refusal to participate in the upcoming senatorial elections, citing concerns over transparency and fairness. The elections form part of a more extensive constitutional reform perceived as an attempt by President Gnassingbe to prolong his presidency. The opposition’s concerns are compounded by the suppression of dissenting voices, making the political landscape increasingly fraught with tension.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
