In Togo, the country is preparing for the legislative and regional elections which will take place on April 13, 2024. This announcement, made during the council of ministers on February 8, sets a long-awaited date, after the expiration of the mandate of the deputies at the end of 2023. This electoral deadline is of particular importance, because it marks the first time where legislative elections will be coupled with regional elections.
The announcement of the date caused both surprises and concerns among political parties. Some have expressed concern about the short time frame they have to organize and run an effective election campaign. However, the National Alliance for Change (ANC) says it is relieved to finally have a date set, several weeks after the end of MPs’ mandate. For its part, the Union of Forces for Change (UFC) declares itself ready for these electoral meetings, stressing that it is essential to take the necessary time for good preparation.
However, a major concern emerges in relation to the amount of the deposit required for each legislative candidate. Set at 500,000 FCFA (around 760 euros), this sum raises concerns among certain opposition political parties who believe that it is too high. Éric Dupuy, spokesperson for the ANC, highlights the financial difficulties facing opposition parties in a country where the cost of living is already very high. This increase in the deposit therefore risks excluding small parties which do not have the necessary resources to support it.
The electoral campaign period will open on March 28, giving candidates two weeks to convince voters. However, concerns arise about the conditions under which this campaign will take place. Brigitte Adjamagbo Johnson, coordinator of the dynamics for the majority of the people (DMP), highlights the recent prevention of a march organized by her movement, which raises fears about freedom of expression and possible obstacles to the campaign of opponents.
Unlike the last legislative elections in 2018, no boycott slogan was given by the opposition. Political parties must submit their candidacy files 45 days before the election, i.e. by the end of the month. However, it remains to be seen how these elections will take place in a tense political context marked by internal tensions.
In short, the legislative and regional elections in Togo in April 2024 represent a crucial stage for the country. Setting the date allows the different political actors to prepare, while raising concerns regarding the financing of candidacies and guarantees of transparency during the electoral campaign. The results of these elections will have a significant impact on the political configuration of the country, and it remains to be hoped that the democratic process takes place in fair and equitable conditions.