The forthcoming legislative and regional elections in Togo in 2024 are poised to be a pivotal moment in the nation’s political landscape. As Togo gears up for the crucial electoral event on April 29, a noteworthy development emerges: the substantial participation of women in the electoral process, challenging traditional norms and expectations.
With 2,348 candidates vying for the legislative elections and 113 seats up for grabs, an impressive 593 women are stepping into the race for Parliament, while 438 women are competing in the regional elections, as per data from the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Among these courageous candidates are exceptional individuals seeking to inject a fresh perspective and promote more balanced representation in politics.
One such figure is Victoire Dogbé, the current Prime Minister of Togo and a candidate for the UNIR party. In her campaign through the town of Vogan, she emphasized the importance of sustaining the progress achieved and urged voters to make informed choices to continue the trajectory of development.
“We are prepared to vote. It is vital that we vote strategically to ensure the continuity of the ongoing initiatives,” Dogbé emphasized during a campaign gathering in the village of Klologo Gagnon.
Her dedication to politics has garnered admiration from citizens like Adzovi Gati, a local farmer, who sees in her a beacon of hope for the future of Togolese women.
“Her leadership ensures a promising future for women,” remarked Adzovi Gati.
In a political landscape where female participation is historically limited, opposition candidate Brigitte Adjamagbo-Johnson, with over three decades of political engagement, embodies resolve and resilience.
Through her relentless grassroots campaign, she calls upon the Togolese populace to rally behind women candidates, shedding light on the hurdles they face, including physical risks. Her advocacy serves as a clarion call for equitable participation in elections.
“Engaging in politics entails significant risks, including physical threats. We urge the Togolese people to support these brave women who have dared to contest,” urged Adjamagbo-Johnson.
Presenting a different campaign approach, Mimi Bossou-Soedjédé emphasizes close engagement with citizens, underscoring the significance of these elections for gender equality.
Her mission is unequivocal: to achieve gender parity in the upcoming Togolese Parliament. Her optimism and resolve mirror the wave of change propelling many women candidates.
“If we could secure 50% female representation in the National Assembly, it would be momentous. We aspire to be there alongside other women to ensure parity in Parliament. I firmly believe that such a change would positively transform our nation,” expressed Mimi Bossou-Soedjédé.
Currently, Togo counts 17 women deputies out of 91 in parliament, with only 13.23% representation of women at the local level, including 12 women mayors out of 117 communes.
The escalating presence of women in Togo’s political sphere marks a significant stride towards fostering more balanced and inclusive representation, paving the way for diverse perspectives in the country’s decision-making forums. These elections have the potential to inaugurate a new chapter where women’s voices are not just heard but integrated into shaping Togo’s future.
Ultimately, the active involvement of women in these elections signals progress towards a fairer and more egalitarian society, underscoring the value and promotion of gender equality and female representation.
For more details, read the full article at [Fatshimetrie](https://eng.fatshimetrie.org/2024/04/23/togo-women-candidates-campaign-for-more-seats-ahead-legislative-and-regional-elections/)