Eyadéma

Eyadéma refers to Gnassingbé Eyadéma, who was the President of Togo from 1967 until his death in 2005. He came to power through a military coup and subsequently established a one-party state. His rule was characterized by authoritarianism and human rights abuses, though he also presided over a period of relative stability in a region often prone to conflict.

Born in 1935, Eyadéma joined the French army and served in Indochina and Algeria before returning to Togo. He played a key role in the military coup that overthrew President Nicolas Grunitzky in 1967, and then assumed the presidency himself. His party, the Rally of the Togolese People (RPT), became the sole legal political organization. Despite international criticism and internal dissent, Eyadéma maintained his grip on power for nearly four decades, winning several elections that were often marred by allegations of fraud.

Towards the end of his life, there were some moves towards political liberalization, including the establishment of a multiparty system. However, his legacy remains a complex one, marked by both his long tenure and the significant political and social control he exerted over Togo. Following his death, his son, Faure Gnassingbé, succeeded him as president, continuing the family's influence in Togolese politics.