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Former Presidents Jerry John Rawlings and John Mahama have kicked against the decision by the government to deploy military personnel along border towns of the country.
The two leaders in separate statements say the deployment of soldiers in these communities especially those in the Volta and Oti Regions, is generating anxiety and animosity among the citizenry.
The exercise is believed to ensure non-nationals are prevented from entering the country through unauthorised routes as the officials borders will Togo remain closed -as a measure to contain the COVID-19 spread- while the Electoral Commission embarks on the compilation of a new voters’ role starting Tuesday, June 30.
Former President Mahama was first to issue a statement Sunday, June 28, 2020, in which he cautioned the military against being used as a tool to abuse the citizenry.
On Monday, Mr. Rawlings also released a statement questioning the timing of the exercise because it “will call for a lot of intelligent flexibility and diligence.”
“The Covid-19 restrictions have created enough difficulties for most of our citizens. Let us not make it worse with overbearing and intimidating behaviour towards our border dwellers whose livelihood solely depend on activities along the border,” he stated.
According to him, “Ahead of the voter registration exercise and the December elections, it is important that we demonstrate a sense of fairness and justice to all individuals and groups of people whilst maintaining the integrity and the sanctity of the process.”
