The Union of Democratic Socialists of Togo (UDS-TOGO) has called for a national dialogue to address the country's ongoing political impasse. In a statement released after an extraordinary session on October 24, 2026, in Lomé, the party emphasized the need for an inclusive national dialogue to restore constitutional order and alleviate the country's political climate. The party advocates for institutional and electoral reforms, socio-economic measures, and an amnesty law to promote national reconciliation.
The UDS-TOGO party made the call following a ruling by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court of Justice on January 29, 2026, regarding Togo's constitutional revision of March 25, 2024. The court deemed the revision a change of government, contrary to the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance. The UDS-TOGO party views this ruling as a significant legal development, as the court asserted its competence in human rights matters despite the Togolese government's objections.
The ECOWAS Court of Justice's ruling has significant implications for Togo's political landscape. While the court did not annul the new constitution or institutions, it ordered the government to ensure future reforms comply with the charter. The UDS-TOGO party regrets that the court did not impose more specific measures, such as a new inclusive revision process or the restoration of direct presidential elections.
The UDS-TOGO party believes that the ECOWAS court's ruling constitutes a political and moral setback for the Togolese government. The party argues that the ruling undermines the legitimacy of the new constitution, institutions, and leaders. The court also noted that the revision process and its intended effects suggest an attempt to circumvent presidential term limits.
The UDS-TOGO party emphasizes that the constitutional revision issue is linked to broader governance problems in Togo. The party notes that the revision has exacerbated existing challenges, including poverty, high living costs, unemployment, and declining purchasing power. The UDS-TOGO party argues that restoring constitutional order must be accompanied by concrete responses to citizens' concerns, such as job creation, education, healthcare, and access to basic services.
The UDS-TOGO party is urging all Togolese political forces to participate in a national dialogue to find consensual solutions to the country's crisis. The party believes that this dialogue is essential to address the country's governance issues and create a democratic system where the rule of law is respected. The UDS-TOGO party also emphasizes the need to guarantee fundamental freedoms, including expression, assembly, and opposition.
The UDS-TOGO party's call for national dialogue has significant implications for Togo's future. The party's proposals aim to promote national reconciliation, restore constitutional order, and address the country's socio-economic challenges. The success of this initiative will depend on the participation of all stakeholders and the government's willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue.
Key points
- The UDS-TOGO party calls for an inclusive national dialogue to address Togo's ongoing political impasse and promote national reconciliation.
