Vote counts underway in Togo

<p>In Togo, counting of votes began Saturday just after the first round of the presidential election.</p> <p>More than 3.6 million people registered for a population of nearly 8 million to decide between the six candidates.</p> <p>The failed opposition has found a single candidate, hoping that a leader will emerge to unite the opposition in the second round.</p> <p>But in the camp of President Faure Gnassingbe, it is hoped that he will win a fourth term.</p> <p>President Faure Gnassingbé became president in 2005 after the death of his father, who took power in 1967.</p> <p>Under the country’s current law, Gnassingbé could remain in office until 2030, if re-elected.</p> <p>This week, the Togolese government expelled a U.S.-based organization that promotes democratic principles and observes elections.</p> <p>The U.S. government has criticized the expulsion of the National Democratic Institute.</p> <p><strong><span class="caps">AFP</span></strong></p>