Togo's third opposition party pulls out of presidential elections

The third Togolese opposition political party, the Democratic Convention of African People (CDPA) , announced on Sunday evening that its candidate was pulling out of the presidential election process.

The CDPA announced the walkout following the United Forces for Change (UFC), the main Togolese opposition party; and the Committee of Action for Renewal (CAR).

Despite mediation by Burkina Faso, differences remain between the ruling Assembly of Togolese People (RPT) and the opposition over such issues as the mode of elections.

The RPT insists on a one-round vote, while the opposition says the mode is unfair for them in the contest and that a second round is necessary for a true democratic election.

Amid tensions, Gnassingbe announced a presidential decree last week, putting off the election date from Feb. 28 to March 4.

Source: Xinhua