World > Africa > Togo > Government and Political Conditions (Notes)

Togo - Government and Political Conditions (Notes)

GOVERNMENT AND POLITICAL CONDITIONS Togo has a transitional unity government in preparation for legislative elections. President Gnassingbe faces a significant challenge, treading lightly with entrenched ruling party interests while trying to implement democratic reforms and revive Togo's deteriorating economy. Togo's long-suffering population has seen its living standards decline precipitously since the 1980s. The Togolese judiciary is modeled on the French system. For administrative purposes, Togo is divided into 30 prefectures, each having an appointed prefect. Principal Government Officials President--Faure Gnassingbe Prime Minister--Yawovi Agboyibo Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation--Zarifou Ayeva Minister of Justice--Tchessa Abi Minister of Defense and Veteran Affairs--Kpatcha Gnassingbe Minister of Security--Col. Pitalouna-Ani Laokpessi Next Elections Scheduled Presidential elections--Not scheduled. Legislative elections--September 2007. Local elections--Not applicable.