The Illusion of Reform: Why Togo's Political Changes Are Cosmetic, Not Democratic

The Illusion of Reform: Why Togo's Political Changes Are Cosmetic, Not Democratic (Published: June 2023) by Komlan Eyram Mensah Dossou Every few years, the regime in Togo puts on a show — a new reform, a new election, a reshuffled cabinet. To the international community, this signals progress. But for those of us on the ground. For the real Togolese people — it is nothing more than political theater . I am Komlan Eyram Mensah Dossou , a committed activist and member of the ANC, and I say this without hesitation: Togo is not reforming. It is repackaging tyranny. Let us examine the evidence: Electoral commissions are still appointed by those in power. Opposition voices are allowed only if they are quiet or compromised. The press is censored, journalists imprisoned, and internet cut during protests. Constitutional changes like the recent shift to a parliamentary system only consolidate Faure Gnassingbé’s rule. True reform empowers the people. Cosmetic reform protects the regime ....