Togo’s Foreign Minister, Robert Dussey, recently spoke at the United Nations in New York to affirm his country’s position in favor of peace. In his speech, he stressed that Togo was a “country of peace” and that he opposed war in all its forms.
These declarations are significant in a regional context where tensions and conflicts are unfortunately too frequent. Togo, a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), seeks to distinguish itself by advocating military non-interference in the affairs of neighboring countries, particularly vis-à-vis Niger.
Togo has long claimed the status of a neutral mediator in Africa, seeking to resolve disputes between countries in the region through dialogue and diplomacy. This pacifist and sovereignist position stands out from other ECOWAS countries which, in the past, have opted for military interventions to resolve conflicts.
Indeed, Togo has never been involved in acts of aggression against its neighbors and has never served as a rear base for military operations hostile to other African countries. This desire to maintain peace in the region and promote stability is laudable and deserves to be welcomed.
However, some members of the Togolese opposition question the real motivations behind this government statement. They believe this could be a strategy to divert the attention of the Togolese people from the country’s internal problems, such as President Faure Gnassingbé’s fourth term and the lack of transparency regarding the upcoming legislative elections.
It is important to take these concerns into account and continue to closely monitor developments in the political situation in Togo. Nevertheless, the declarations of the Minister of Foreign Affairs demonstrate Togo’s affirmed desire to promote peace and reject violence as a means of resolving conflicts.
In conclusion, Togo’s position in favor of peace and against any foreign military intervention in the region is to be welcomed. This demonstrates the country’s desire to play a role as a neutral mediator and to contribute to the stability of West Africa. Let us hope that other countries in the region also adopt this pacifist approach to resolving disputes and building a future of peace for all.