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Togo will conduct its first-ever Senate elections on February 2, marking a significant step in implementing a contentious new constitution, the government announced on Thursday.

The constitutional overhaul replaces the direct election of the president with a parliamentary system, sparking criticism from opposition and civil society groups.

Critics argue the reforms are designed to perpetuate the power of President Faure Gnassingbé, who has ruled the West African nation of 8.8 million since 2005, succeeding his father, who held power for 38 years.

Previously, the constitution allowed Gnassingbé to seek one final presidential term in 2025.

However, under the revised framework, the presidency becomes a largely ceremonial position elected by parliament for a four-year term.

The reform enables Gnassingbé, 57, to assume the role of president of the council of ministers, effectively consolidating his power indefinitely, provided his Union for the Republic (UNIR) party maintains its legislative majority.

Gnassingbé, who has won four elections since taking office, has faced repeated accusations of electoral irregularities from opposition groups.

The Senate’s creation was initially proposed in a 2002 constitutional amendment but was never implemented.

The upcoming elections will see two-thirds of senators elected by regional and municipal councilors, with the remaining one-third appointed directly by the president.

According to the government, senators will review legislative bills before they proceed to the National Assembly for approval.

The campaign period for Senate candidates is scheduled to run from January 17 to January 31.

In April, UNIR secured 108 out of 113 parliamentary seats, reinforcing its dominance in Togo’s political landscape.

The government has defended the constitutional changes, claiming they promote broader representation, while critics decry the reforms as a step backward for democracy.

With the election of senators, Togo will officially transition into its Fifth Republic.

However, opposition efforts to protest the reforms have been stymied, as political rallies have been banned since 2022.

As the February elections approach, the nation stands at a crossroads, with significant implications for its democratic trajectory.

AFP