PSC/PR/Comm(XXX)
Page 1
COMMUNIQUE OF THE 30TH MEETING
OF THE PEACE AND SECURITY COUNCIL
The Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU), at its 30th meeting,
held on 27 May 2005, adopted the following decision on the developments in Togo:
Council,
1.
Expresses its concern at the persistent tension in Togo, following the
presidential election held on 24 April 2005;
2.
Recalls its decision of 25 February 2005, by which, inter-alia, it mandated the
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), in close coordination with
the current Chairman of the AU and the Chairperson of the Commission, to take all
such measures as it deemed necessary to restore constitutional legality in Togo
within the shortest time. In this regard, Council takes note of the efforts deployed by
the ECOWAS to support the process of stabilization and national reconciliation in
Togo. Council further takes note of the decision of the ECOWAS on 25 February
2005, by which it decided to lift the sanctions imposed on Togo;
3.
Considers that conditions for the resumption of the participation of de-facto
authorities in Togo and their representatives in the activities of all the Organs of the
African Union have been fulfilled, and consequently, requests the Commission to
take the necessary steps to ensure the resumption of the participation of Togo in the
said activities;
4.
Takes note of the conclusions of the mini-Summit of Heads of States and
Government on the situation in Togo, held in Abuja, on 19 May 2005, calling for the
adoption of measures to restore confidence, as well as the establishment of a
framework for dialogue aimed at restoring normalcy in the country and facilitating the
formation of a Government of National Unity that represents the entire political class
and that should be mandated to initiate the necessary reforms for the recovery of the
country, and inviting the Togolese political forces to abstain from any act of violence,
impunity and vandalism that could contribute to insecurity in the country;
5.
Requests the Chairperson of the Commission to continue to closely work with
the current Chairman in order to promote political dialogue and the process of
deepening democracy in Togo. In this regard, Council supports the decision of the
Chairperson of the Commission to appoint a Special Envoy to facilitate dialogue
between the Togolese parties, in close coordination with the ECOWAS. Council
further requests the Chairperson of the Commission to take all measures he deems
necessary, including the dispatch of an Observer Mission to monitor political,
security, social, humanitarian and human rights developments in Togo;
6.
Appeals to AU Member States and the international community to assist the
Togolese who fled from violence in their country and who have sought refuge in
Ghana and Benin;
7.
Urges the Togolese parties to show restraint and a sense of compromise with
a view to facilitating the establishment of a National Recovery Government, as well
as the promotion of national reconciliation and democracy;
8.
Decides to remain seized of the matter.