Corruption in Togo

Nepotism and corruption

Togo’s political landscape, shaped by a long period of single-family rule, has fostered a culture where patronage and nepotism permeate instead of meritocracy. The country has been dominated by Gnassingbé family rule for over five decades, beginning with Gnassingbé Eyadéma's presidency in 1967 and continuing under his son, Faure Gnassingbé, since 2005. Eyadéma’s two sons had served as commanders of important military garrisons in Togo and both have been implicated in abuses against opponents of their clan’s regime. The concentration of power has enshrined a culture of nepotism in state institutions where family members, relatives, and close allies are appointed in key government positions.

The nepotistic system has facilitated widespread corruption, as those in power prioritize personal enrichment over public service. The extent and severity of this problem are evident in the recent scandal involving the questionable disbursement of COVID-19 funds. Togo’s Court of Auditors found that the prime minister, the ministers of digital economy, health, communication, grassroots development, education, and commerce, in addition to the National Coordination Committee for the Management of the COVID-19 response, were all implicated in the irregularities involving a $21.8 million fund.

The single-family rule has also created a system of patronage, where lucrative government contracts are routinely awarded to companies that have close ties to the ruling family. This stifles growth because legitimate businesses are sidelined and investments are discouraged. A prominent example is the Bolloré Group case, in which the company's owner and top executives were indicted for allegedly financing the re-election campaign of Faure Gnassingbé. In return for its political support, the company was controversially awarded the contract to manage the ports of Lomé. The system has also put strain on the judiciary and law enforcement agencies, undermining their ability to operate independently. Corruption cases forwarded to the Attorney General often lack effective prosecution and are typically followed up with little to no action, reflecting systemic weaknesses in accountability.

Another aspect of the dynastic rule of the Gnassingbé family, as is the case in other autocratic regimes, is the high level of insecurity and uncertainty regarding their longevity. Aside from installing clansmen and allies to key positions of state, the succession of rulers overcomes active opposition through a strategy of brutal violence. As a result, there is a lack of scrutiny as well as checks and balances, which allows corruption to flourish.