The African Tribune

The recent ruling by the ECOWAS Court of Justice on Togo’s constitutional changes has sparked intense debate in Lomé. While the government rejects the decision outright, civil society groups are escalating their criticism, accusing authorities of state-sanctioned gangsterism. Lomé’s legal strategy: dismissing ECOWAS authority Togo’s administration has swiftly defended itself against the regional court’s verdict. Officials argue that the ECOWAS Court lacks the jurisdiction to rule on national constitutional matters or interfere with sovereign legislative processes, effectively undermining the ruling’s domestic validity. Civil society fires back: a constitutional coup under scrutiny The Association of Victims of Torture in Togo (ASVITTO) has launched a scathing public response, dismissing ...

With the Grand Magal just around the corner, the President of the National Assembly made a customary courtesy visit to Touba to meet with the General Khalife of the Mouride Brotherhood, Serigne Mountakha Mbacké. Leading a prominent delegation of deputies and Pastef officials, he underscored the enduring ties between the State and the Mouride community amid a backdrop of recent controversies. The visit carried special significance this year, as Ousmane Sonko took the opportunity to pay tribute to the legacy of Serigne Touba, the revered founder of the Mouride order. Standing before the spiritual leader, he expressed deep admiration for the guiding principles and lifelong dedication that defined Serigne Touba's journey. « Our joy and respect for Serigne Touba know no bounds, » Sonko remarke...

Bénin has entered a new chapter in its political history with the inauguration of its first-ever Senate, a landmark moment for the nation’s governance framework. The newly formed chamber, composed of elected representatives, is set to play a pivotal role in shaping policies and reinforcing democratic institutions. From Vision to Reality: The Birth of Bénin’s Senate The establishment of the Senate follows years of legislative reforms aimed at modernizing Bénin’s governance structure. This upper house of parliament will work alongside the National Assembly to balance power, ensure checks and balances, and foster inclusive decision-making. The transition marks a significant stride toward strengthening the country’s democratic foundations. Key Figures in the Senate’s Inauguration The cerem...

This week in Abidjan, Dr. Souleymane DIARRASSOUBA, Côte d'Ivoire's Minister of Planning and Development, led a pivotal national workshop to validate the study for the National Spatial Planning Framework (SNAT CI-2045). The gathering brought together representatives from government institutions, prefectural bodies, local authorities, technical and financial partners, alongside public administrations, the private sector, civil society, academia, experts, and media representatives. This milestone paves the way for adopting Côte d'Ivoire’s first-ever national territorial planning reference document. The SNAT CI-2045 will equip the state with a comprehensive framework to guide public and private investments sustainably, enhance the efficiency of government action, and promote a more balanced t...

Under the leadership of Dr. Souleymane DIARRASSOUBA, Minister of Planning and Development, a landmark national workshop convened in Abidjan to validate the study for the Côte d'Ivoire National Territorial Planning Scheme (SNAT CI-2045). The gathering brought together key stakeholders including government institutions, prefectural authorities, local governments, technical and financial partners, public administrations, private sector representatives, civil society, academia, experts, and media professionals. This pivotal session marks the final stretch toward adopting the country’s first national territorial planning framework. The SNAT CI-2045 will serve as a definitive guide for steering both public and private investments, enhancing the effectiveness of government initiatives, and f...