Togo : Spotlight on ECOWAS Pre-Electoral assessment mission in the country
In a statement released on April 16th, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) provided important clarifications regarding its mission to Togo. The statement specifies that « the mission will undertake a pre-electoral assessment in accordance with community texts and will not engage in any process, contrary to what was indicated in a previous statement that has been withdrawn ».
This mission, composed of seven members, aims primarily to conduct a pre-electoral assessment in line with ECOWAS standards and rules. Led by Maman Sambo Sidikou, former head of the African Union mission to Mali and the Sahel, it will be in Togo from April 15th to 20th. Its mandate is to meet with key stakeholders involved in the ongoing electoral process in Togo.
The statement underscores the importance of this mission in the context of respecting democratic principles and the values of transparency and credibility of elections within the West African region. ECOWAS is committed to playing an active role in supervising and monitoring electoral processes to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections.
The choice of Maman Sambo Sidikou to lead this mission speaks to his extensive experience in political affairs and his commitment to stability and democracy in West Africa. His in-depth knowledge of regional issues, particularly in Mali and the Sahel, will be a valuable asset in successfully conducting this pre-electoral assessment in Togo.
It is noteworthy that this mission comes at a crucial time as Togo prepares for important elections. Meetings with key actors in the electoral process will enable ECOWAS to gain a comprehensive overview and formulate recommendations to ensure transparent and credible elections.
