Earlier this month, the government of Togo announced in a statement that the country’s first-ever Senate elections will take place on February 2, 2025. The new Senate will consist of two-thirds elected senators, with the remaining one-third appointed by the President. These elections, conducted through indirect suffrage, will be held among a restricted electoral body made up exclusively of major electors, including 1,523 municipal councillors and 179 regional councillors.
The announcement of these Senate elections has sparked various reactions, particularly from the opposition political group, Dynamique pour la Majorité du Peuple (DMP). In a statement, the DMP denounced the elections as part of a “continuing constitutional coup” being orchestrated by the government. The group argued that the elections were another step in the ruling party’s strategy to establish the institutions of a Fifth Republic, which they claim has been rejected by the Togolese people.
The DMP also criticized the Electoral Commission (CENI), which is responsible for organizing the elections, calling it both “illegal and illegitimate.” The opposition contended that the CENI violated the electoral code, which mandates that its composition should reflect the current makeup of the National Assembly. “We reject the CENI and its role in organizing these elections,” the DMP statement read. The opposition also accused the government of manipulating the electorate and ensuring control over the entire Senate, including the appointed senators.
Additionally, the DMP condemned the creation of the Senate, calling it “unnecessary and costly,” especially during a period of economic and financial crisis. The group reminded the public that the May 6, 2024, constitutional reform, which underpins this new Senate, was adopted against the will of the people and in violation of the 1992 Constitution. “This change now deprives the Togolese people of their fundamental right to choose the President of the Republic,” the statement added.
In response to the situation, the DMP reiterated its refusal to participate in what it termed a betrayal of the people and called on the Togolese to remain vigilant. “In a democracy, the people are the ultimate authority,” the statement concluded.
Togo announces first Senate Elections amid opposition criticism
