Besseling: End of Togo electoral cycle assures policy continuity

The recent legislative election in Togo, which saw President Faure Gnassingbé's ruling UNIR party secure a sweeping majority, has raised questions about the country's democratic future and stability in the West African region. The controversial constitutional reforms that allowed President Gnassingbé to extend his rule until 2031 have sparked concerns about political continuity and opposition unity in Togo. Robert Besseling, CEO of Pangea-Risk, sheds light on the implications of the election results and what it means for investors and the broader economy in the region. One of the key points Besseling highlighted is the lack of unity among the political opposition in Togo. The opposition's rejection of the election outcome and the ruling party's dominance in parliament underscore a longstanding challenge in the country's political landscape. Despite previous mass protests in 2017 and 2018, the opposition has struggled to present a unified front, giving the ruling party a clear advantage. Another critical aspect discussed is the impact of the election results on the investment environment and security situation in Togo and the broader Sahel region. Besseling notes that while concerns may be heightened, the approval of the election results by the Constitutional Council and the heavy-handed security measures in place suggest limited avenues for recourse. This situation, Besseling argues, could lead to a more politically stable environment, offering investors a sense of continuity and certainty. Furthermore, the conversation delves into the resurgence of coups d'états across Africa and the potential implications for future political stability. Besseling emphasizes the need to differentiate between military interventions aimed at addressing unpopular administrations and those driven by ambitions to seize power. While Togo appears stable for now, Besseling warns of the diverse political landscapes across West and Central Africa, where factors such as insurgency, civil unrest, and economic challenges could contribute to heightened political instability. As the region braces for future elections, including Ghana's upcoming polls, the discussion underscores the need for continuous monitoring of political developments and a nuanced understanding of the forces at play in different countries. While Togo may offer a sense of relative stability post-election, the broader West and Central African region remains susceptible to varying degrees of political upheaval. In conclusion, the electoral cycle in Togo marks a pivotal moment for the country's democratic trajectory and sets the stage for ongoing discussions around governance, opposition dynamics, and investor confidence. With President Gnassingbé's extended rule and the ruling party's firm grip on power, political continuity appears to be the prevailing theme in Togo's current landscape. However, the region's complex political realities continue to pose challenges that require vigilant monitoring and analysis.