Togo counts landmark poll votes

The Togolese army and security forces were allowed to vote early

Votes are being counted in the west African state of Togo after landmark parliamentary elections with the first results not expected until mid-week.

All opposition parties took part for the first time in almost two decades and EU observers said there had been no reports of serious disturbances.

Togolese leaders hope the poll will convince foreign donors to resume aid after a suspension lasting 15 years.

Turnout appeared to be high, with long queues reported at polling stations.

Hundreds of people were killed during the 2005 presidential election, won by current President Faure Gnassingbe.

He replaced his father, Gnassingbe Eyadema, who had ruled for 38 years and dealt ruthlessly with the opposition.

The head of the European Union's observer mission, Fiona Hall, told the BBC there had been no reports of violence and voting had generally gone very smoothly.

TOGO ELECTION IN NUMBERS 3,000,000 voters 2,150 candidates 81 seats in national assembly 3,000 observers

"The greatest anxiety when the process of doing elections differently was started was always that there would be a return to violence on polling day. That hasn't happened."

"I hope that that level of calmness will carry on in the days ahead."

Dozens of parties and independent candidates competed for parliamentary seats in Sunday's election.

Opposition parties, including the Union of Forces for Change (UFC) of veteran opposition leader Gilchrist Olympio, have taken part in largely peaceful campaigns.

Past elections have often been little more than a sham, BBC West Africa correspondent Will Ross says.

The military carried out arbitrary arrests and extrajudicial killings during the 1990s, leading to the cutting of international aid.

Gnassingbe Eyadema's death was followed by further outcry when his own son was installed as president.

Faure Gnassingbe did step down in order for polls to be held but it was no great surprise when he emerged as the victor.

However, his presidential election two years ago was disputed and marred by violence in which hundreds of people were killed.