In a decisive electoral outcome, President Faure Gnassingbe’s ruling party has secured 34 out of 41 Senate seats, according to provisional results released on Sunday. This election, held on Saturday with the participation of 1,706 municipal and regional lawmakers, marks the final stage in the establishment of a new constitution championed by Gnassingbe.
The new constitutional framework in this West African nation of nine million people has sparked considerable controversy. Opposition parties largely boycotted the election, voicing strong disapproval of the reforms, which include the abolition of presidential elections and the transfer of executive powers to a newly created position, the president of the council, appointed by the ruling party.
Since ascending to power in 2005 following his father’s death, President Gnassingbe has faced accusations from opponents of seeking to entrench his authority through these constitutional changes. Under the previous constitution, Gnassingbe would have been eligible to run for one final term in 2025.
In the legislative elections held in April, Gnassingbe’s Union for the Republic party achieved a commanding victory, winning 108 out of 111 seats. The completion of the Senate is pivotal as lawmakers from both chambers are set to vote for the president of the council. The prime minister will nominate an additional 20 Senate seats.
The electoral process has raised concerns over transparency, with foreign media not accredited to cover the Senate election, mirroring restrictions seen during the legislative vote.
The developments in Togo will be closely monitored, as they bear significant implications for the country’s political landscape and the balance of power within its governance structures.