| Author (Person) | Cronin, David |
|---|---|
| Series Title | European Voice |
| Series Details | Vol.8, No.6, 14.2.02, p8 |
| Publication Date | 14/02/2002 |
| Content Type | News |
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Date: 14/02/02 By THE EU has ditched plans to help fund elections in Togo because it believes the west African state's government is hindering their free and fair conduct. About €1.5 million in EU aid had been earmarked for buying materials for the presidential election scheduled for 10 March. But this money will not be spent because Togo's parliament has not given the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) a mandate to organise the poll. A statement by the Spanish presidency also states that the Union is insisting on the release of opposition leader Yaovi Agboyibo - in prison on defamation charges since last August. The EU's decision marks the latest souring in relations withthe Lomé administration. Union development aid to Togo has already been suspended for nine years. The EU has abandoned plans to help fund elections in Togo because it believes the West African state's government is hindering their free and fair conduct. |
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| Countries / Regions | Africa |
