togo
Since 1967, the Gnassingbé family has been in power. As the current president exercises his 4th mandate, the Togolese call for political renovation. However, the recent change from a presidential to a parliamentary system, with indirect elections challenges that goal.
International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA).
Editor’s Note
Togo is not a republic. Is a monarchy. It is hard to even think about democracy, fairness, and power transitions when the same family has been ruling the country since 1967. In every electoral cycle, Faure Gnassingbé, the ultimate nepobaby, manages to come up with more creative manners to stay in power. With some classics such as gerrymandering, and election manipulation he managed to survive 19 years in power. His latest maneuver is almost impressive. Changing the system of government and creating a new office in which he can hold power without having to be elected is almost genius. However, he forgot something: this ain’t the 60s! With the internet and social media, it takes much more power to manipulate a country, and trust me: the Togolese are watching — and fighting.
