ABSTRACT
Political reform in Togo evolved through a convergence of foreign pressures, economic decline, and what may best be characterized as regime fatigue. This chapter argues that three variables explain the emergence of the Togolese reform movement and ultimately its success. First, was the severe economic depression caused by bad economic policies and international shocks that forced a retreat from a state monopoly over most sectors of the economy. Secondly, this crisis revealed an inherent weakness in authoritarian rule wherein co-optation and the use of prebends essentially bought domestic stability. Finally, reports that dictators in Eastern Europe, Latin America, and elsewhere in Africa were falling to reform movements had been broadcast on radios and television throughout the world. The emergence of numerous human rights organizations suggested that a controlled liberalization was occurring under Togolese Peoples Rally (RPT) tutelage. The national conference movement had spread from its successful beginnings in Benin throughout francophone Africa.
