Togo Postpones First Senatorial Elections to February 15

Togo has deferred its first senatorial elections to February 15 to allow political parties additional time for candidate registration. Campaigning will start on January 30. The electoral procedure is part of a controversial new constitution criticized by opposition groups, with some indicating a boycott of the vote set against a backdrop of President Faure Gnassingbe’s prolonged leadership.

Togo has postponed its inaugural senatorial elections to February 15, as announced by a presidential decree released on Friday evening, which aims to facilitate better preparation among political actors. Official campaigning is scheduled to commence on January 30. This election is crucial as it represents a significant step toward the establishment of a new constitution, which has faced substantial criticism from opposition groups and civil society organizations.

The Senate in Togo was formally established through a constitutional amendment in 2002; however, it has yet to be operationalized. It is set to comprise 61 members, with 41 senators nominated by regional and municipal councillors, while the remaining members will be appointed by the President of the Council of Ministers. The new constitutional framework outlines a shift from direct presidential elections to a parliamentary system, raising concerns that this arrangement is designed to allow President Faure Gnassingbe, who has held power since 2005 after succeeding his father, to retain control indefinitely.

In summary, the delay of the senatorial elections in Togo to February 15 is intended to provide political parties with additional time for candidate registration amid widespread dissent regarding the new constitutional changes. The upcoming elections and the functioning of the Senate are pivotal issues, with several major opposition parties indicating intentions to boycott them, citing concerns over a potential ‘constitutional coup’.

Original Source: www.barrons.com