Lome — «We are highly convinced that this election will be peaceful and transparent» stated Mr Babacar Ndiaye, Head of ECOWAS Observation Mission in this election.
During the various meetings held with Togolese politicians involved in the electoral process, Mr Ndiaye appealed to them not only to have as their priority peace and Togo, but also and more importantly respect Togolese texts and Togo's commitments at the international level.
He reiterated the need for leaders of all political parties to educate their militant groups on the need for tolerance and to work towards a free and transparent election. He invited them to respect the verdict of the ballot box, that is the choice expressed by voters and if the need arises follow legal channels to resolve any controversy.
During the press briefing held on Tuesday 2nd March 2010, the Head of the ECOWAS Observation Mission urged the people to vote in an atmosphere of quiet, order and peace. He enjoined voters to eschew violence, not to react to acts of provocations and let every of their actions and behaviours be indicative of peace. « Togo must deviate from the path of violent or controversial elections», he warned.
Mr Babacar Ndiaye seized the opportunity to recall the stakes involved in this election, namely strengthening and consolidating the national reconciliation and democratic process in Togo. He further appealed to the candidates, leaders of political parties and the press to take note of the high responsibility assigned to them, that is, ensuring the organisation of a violence free election. ]
To this end, they must avoid making inflammatory and provoking statements, concluded Mr Babacar Ndiaye.
The 2010 Togo presidential election will be held on Thursday 4 March 2010, however on Monday 1st March, the military and defence force have already voted in advance in accordance with the electoral law.
Seven (7) candidates are contesting in this single round of voting, namely: Mrs Brigitte Adjamagbo Johnson, Agbéyomé Kodjo, Me Yaovi Agboyibo, Jean-Pierre Fabre, Kagbara Bassabi, Nicolas Lawson and Faure Gnassingé, the outgoing President and candidate in his own succession process.
