I have received a fax of 2 January (even faxes take 2 days to get here!!) from the Italian consul in Togo, Mr. Ennio De Santis. Following is the text:

"I have the pleasure of informing you that on 30 December at 22:00, the the formation of a new cabinet has been announced, formed by 23 members representing the different national realities (including two belonging to the former RPT - the former single party).

The Supreme Council of the Republic was able to meet FREELY in the Congress Palace (former headquarters of the party) and pass the new social contract submitted by the Prime Minister and by the government officials.

You will receive the newspaper containing all the details by airmail.

Yours faithfully,

Ennio De Santis