Togo: Politics, economy and society in 2005

When the longest-serving African dictator, Gnassingbé Eyadéma, died unexpectedly in February after 38 years of autocratic rule, political conflict flared up again. His son, Faure Gnassingbé sized power in a coup with the backing of the army and the Barons of the ruling party. Violent protest at home and diplomatic pressure of major donors and African peers forced Gnassingbé to hold presidential elections in April. But as the elections were rigged right from the beginning, it was no surprise that they confirmed the power of the incumbent as heir to the throne of his father. In the interest of political stability in the sub-region, neighbouring states, France and the ECOWAS condoned the election results and the brutal political persecution of opponents. About 700 people died and some 40,000 fled to neighbouring Benin and Ghana in fear of reprisals. This, as well as the continuing suspension of aid from the EU, contributed to the further deterioration of the economy.