Togo recently held legislative elections, which regional electoral observers deemed “free, fair, and transparent.”
The election took place a day after Togolese citizens voted for new lawmakers and regional deputies. Although official results have yet to be announced, the election follows the passing of a controversial constitutional reform criticized for potentially prolonging President Faure Gnassingbe’s tenure.
Gnassingbe initially assumed power through military intervention nearly two decades ago after the passing of his father, Gnassingbe Eyadema, who ruled Togo for nearly four decades.
Monday’s election marked the first vote since the adoption of the new constitution, which introduced a prime minister-style position, raising concerns among opposition parties about potential loopholes to bypass term limits.
Observers from the Community of Sahel-Saharan States (CEN-SAD) noted some concerns, such as annulled ballots and voters still queuing as polling stations closed.
However, despite these issues, the CEN-SAD stated that the overall transparency and regularity of the voting process remained intact, deeming it “free, fair, and transparent.” The election proceeded mostly without major incidents, according to the CEN-SAD, maintaining a positive atmosphere throughout.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) also praised the election’s organization, with mission chief Fatoumata Jallow-Tambajan expressing satisfaction with the process.
Gnassingbe, who has won four previous elections since 2005, received acknowledgement from both ECOWAS and the African Union for the conduct of the election. However, neither organization has released their initial reports on the election.
The adoption of the new constitution on April 19 redefined the presidential role to be largely ceremonial, with real power shifting to the “president of the council of ministers,” akin to a super-Prime Minister. This change allows the leader of the majority party in the assembly to assume significant authority.
Gnassingbe’s Union for the Republic (UNIR) party already holds a dominant position in parliament, potentially securing his transition to this new position if declared the winner of the election.
