Togo lowers election fees to boost participation Ahead of July local polls

In a move to broaden electoral participation, Togo’s government has slashed candidate registration fees just weeks before the July 10 local elections. Prime Minister Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé signed the decree on May 21, 2025, cutting the deposit from 50,000 CFA francs (≈83) to 25,000CFA francs (≈83) to25,000 CFA francs (≈42) for general candidates.

The revised policy maintains a 50% discount for women candidates, reducing their fee to 12,500 CFA francs (≈$21).

This decision follows political consultations where stakeholders advocated for more accessible elections, particularly for underfunded parties and female aspirants.

The measure complements existing state support for democracy, including 500 million CFA francs (≈$830,000) in public funding allocated to political parties based on predefined criteria.

With the electoral campaign launching June 24, the reduced fees aim to energize participation among youth and women – groups historically underrepresented in local governance.

This financial easing signals the government’s effort to foster inclusive elections as Togo prepares for its first local polls since 2019.

Observers suggest the move could reshape the political landscape by enabling more diverse candidates to compete.

Chantal TAWELESSI