Ayayi Togoata Apédo-Amah, a prominent Togolese figure, has expressed his disapproval of the Togolese government's recent actions. In a scathing critique, he questioned the rationale behind organizing a colloquium on the rule of law in Lomé, given the country's questionable democratic credentials. This criticism comes on the heels of a ruling by the ECOWAS Court of Justice, which found Togo guilty of violating its own laws.
The ECOWAS Court of Justice recently declared that Togo's revised constitution, which established the Fifth Republic, was tainted with illegality. Apédo-Amah finds it laughable that Togolese jurists, accused of manipulating the constitution, are now advocating for democratic principles and the rule of law. He argues that this move is a thinly veiled attempt to project a democratic image that the regime does not genuinely embody.
Apédo-Amah highlighted a common tactic employed by those who oppose freedom: they often tout the very freedoms they deny to their citizens. The Togolese government, he suggests, is engaging in a form of political posturing, aimed at masking its authoritarian tendencies. By organizing events focused on human rights and the rule of law, the regime appears to be trying to salvage its international reputation.
The critic also touched on the theme of deception, likening it to a hyena donning a goat's skin to blend in. He posits that while animals can see through such disguises, humans should also be able to discern the truth. Apédo-Amah questioned the credibility of jurists who have contributed to constitutional irregularities, yet presume to lecture on democratic governance.
Apédo-Amah's critique extends to the broader issue of Togo's political landscape, where he sees a disconnect between the ideals of democracy and the reality of governance. He pointed out that genuine democratic systems are built and sustained by democrats, not by those who merely mimic democratic rhetoric. In Togo, he observed, there is a push to present a façade of democracy without the substance.
The Togolese people's desire for political change is, according to Apédo-Amah, unwavering. He believes that the current regime's attempts to cling to power are futile, as the tide of history favors democratic governance and accountability. The change, he asserts, is not only desirable but inevitable.
Ultimately, Apédo-Amah's message revolves around the paradox of Togo's situation: a regime that refuses to relinquish power despite losing legitimacy. He challenges the government to reflect on its actions and align them with the genuine aspirations of the Togolese people, who yearn for a democratic and accountable leadership.
Key points
- The Togolese government is criticized for organizing a colloquium on the rule of law despite being found guilty of violating ECOWAS court rulings.
