Originally published by the Voice of America (www.voanews.com). Voice of America is funded by the US Federal Government and content it exclusively produces is in the public domain. West African Nations Drop Sanctions Against Togo ------------------------------------------------ http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=BDC458:2AB91D3 ECOWAS, announced move Saturday, welcomed decision by Togo's military-installed leader Faure Gnassingbe to step down Faure GnassingbeWest African countries have lifted their sanctions against Togo after its new president announced he was stepping down to make way for an open election. The Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, announced the move Saturday, and welcomed the decision by Togo's military-installed leader Faure Gnassingbe to step down. The president said Friday he is resigning to ensure a fair presidential election expected within 60 days. Before announcing his resignation, Mr. Gnassingbe accepted the ruling party's nomination to run for president in the elections. Togo's parliament late Friday selected Abass Bonfoh, a member of Mr. Gnassingbe's ruling party, as interim president until elections are held. Mr. Gnassingbe was named president earlier this month hours after the death of his father Gnassingbe Eyadema, the West African nation's ruler for 38 years. .