Togolese Members of Parliament have unanimously voted to prolong the state of emergency in the northern Savanes region for an additional 12 months, citing ongoing security threats posed by violent insurgents
The decision comes as Togo grapples with mounting concerns over the persistent infiltration of militant groups from neighboring Burkina Faso and Mali, posing significant security challenges not only for Togo but also for its neighbouring countries.
President Faure Gnassingbe initially declared the state of emergency in June 2022, and since then, it has been extended twice, underscoring the severity and protracted nature of the security crisis in the region.
Colonel Hodabalo Awate, speaking on behalf of the government, reiterated the administration’s commitment to deploying this measure judiciously to bolster security. Additionally, he emphasised the imperative of creating a conducive environment for the forthcoming legislative and regional elections scheduled for April 20.
Togo’s political landscape has long been characterised by governance issues, with President Gnassingbe succeeding his father, General Gnassingbe Eyadema, in 2005, following his 38-year authoritarian rule.
Despite multiple re-elections, concerns raised by the opposition regarding electoral irregularities highlight broader challenges within the country’s democratic process.
The decision to extend the state of emergency underscores the government’s unwavering determination to effectively address security threats while concurrently navigating the path towards fostering democratic governance and ensuring peaceful elections.
