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Togo's Elections Marred by Fear and Disillusionment

7/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Togo's municipal elections unfolded against a backdrop of fear and disillusionment, with polling stations in Lome eerily quiet after last month's deadly protests. Citizens, wary of potential violence from both protesters and security forces, stayed away. President Faure Gnassingbe, criticized for enabling indefinite re-election, faces mounting tension as public demonstrations remain banned.

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Story summary

Togo's municipal elections unfolded against a backdrop of fear and disillusionment, with polling stations in Lome eerily quiet after last month's deadly protests. Citizens, wary of potential violence from both protesters and security forces, stayed away. President Faure Gnassingbe, criticized for enabling indefinite re-election, faces mounting tension as public demonstrations remain banned.