Lawmakers in Togo recently approved changes to the constitution related to presidential term limits and how presidents are elected, sparking criticism from opposition politicians and civil society groups who view the reforms as a constitutional coup. President Faure Gnassingbe initially pushed for the amendments to be adopted on March 25, but faced backlash and called for further consultations and a second parliamentary vote. The final approval of the reforms came just days before the April 29 legislative elections, which had been delayed due to the constitutional issues. The new system now requires the president to be elected by members of parliament instead of through universal suffrage, and also implements a parliamentary system of government while shortening presidential terms to four years with a two-term limit.
The amendments have raised concerns among those opposed to the changes, who fear that they could lead to further extensions of President Faure Gnassingbe’s 19-year rule and his family’s continued hold on power. The opposition coalition, Dynamique Pour la Majorité du Peuple, along with other signatories, labeled the constitutional changes as a political maneuver to allow Gnassingbe to potentially extend his tenure indefinitely. They described the events at the National Assembly as a coup d’etat and announced plans for large-scale action to reject the new constitution. The possibility of Gnassingbe remaining in power until 2033 if re-elected in 2025, coupled with his party’s control of parliament, has heightened concerns over the perpetuation of the ruling family’s influence in Togo.
Following the approval of the reforms, lawmaker Koumealo Anate of President Gnassingbe’s ruling UNIR party expressed satisfaction and pride in the steps taken towards a more inclusive and participatory democracy. However, a group of 17 civil society organizations have condemned the amendments as a means for the regime to consolidate power and prevent democratic change. Nathaniel Olympio, president of the opposition party Parti des Togolais, criticized the regime’s apparent objective of preserving power at any cost. Similar moves to extend presidential terms have been seen in other African countries, contributing to a growing trend in the region where the consolidation of power by leaders has led to political instability and social unrest.
The West and Central African region has witnessed an increase in military coups in recent years, highlighting the fragility of democracy in the area and the challenges faced in establishing and maintaining political stability. Violent crackdowns on political demonstrations have been common in Togo under both President Faure Gnassingbe and his father’s rule, reflecting a pattern of suppression of dissent. Gnassingbe’s controversial re-election in 2020 further exacerbated tensions between the government and the opposition. The new constitution creates a new position, president of the council of ministers, with broad powers to oversee governmental affairs, raising concerns about the concentration of authority in the hands of a single individual. As the international community and regional organizations monitor the situation in Togo, pressure mounts on President Gnassingbe to address the growing discontent and strive towards a more inclusive and transparent governance system.
