Togo’s Ruling Party Sweeps Local Elections Amid Public Outrage Over Power Grab

Togo has held municipal elections following widespread protests against President Faure Gnassingbé and his family's decades-long rule.

The elections, seen as a test of Gnassingbé's grip on power after a controversial constitutional change, were marked by low voter turnout and public anger. The ruling party, Union for the Republic (UNIR), won a commanding majority of council seats, further consolidating its control.

Many Togolese expressed frustration over the lack of political change and the continued dominance of the Gnassingbé family, which has ruled since 1967. The elections took place under heightened security, with borders temporarily closed and reports of voter apathy.