Togo’s political landscape is heating up after lawmakers passed constitutional changes that could extend President Faure Gnassingbe’s rule. Opposition parties and civil society groups are calling for widespread protests, accusing the government of a “coup d’etat.”
Concerns Over Transparency and Term Limits
The new constitution scraps direct presidential elections by the public, with parliamentarians now responsible for choosing the head of state. It also introduces a four-year term limit with the possibility of re-election, but crucially, this limit doesn’t apply to previous terms served. This means President Gnassingbe, who has already been in power for 19 years, could potentially stay in office until 2033.
The opposition coalition Dynamique pour la Majorité du Peuple (DMP) slammed the changes as a ploy to allow Gnassingbe to rule indefinitely. They criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the process, highlighting that the full text of the amended constitution wasn’t made public before the vote. The DMP urged Togolese citizens to mobilize against the changes and promised “large-scale action” in the coming days.
International Concerns and Regional Trends
The U.S. State Department echoed these concerns, expressing deep disappointment that the reforms were passed without public knowledge. They urged the Togolese government to prioritize inclusivity, transparency, and the right to peaceful assembly.
Togo isn’t alone in this trend. Several African nations in recent years have witnessed similar attempts to extend presidential terms through legal means. The Central African Republic, Rwanda, Congo Republic, Ivory Coast, and Guinea are just a few examples. This trend, coupled with the recent wave of military coups in West and Central Africa, raises concerns about democratic backsliding in the region.
History of Repression and Uncertain Future
President Gnassingbe, re-elected in a disputed 2020 vote, has a history of cracking down on dissent. His father, Gnassingbe Eyadema, ruled Togo for 38 years after seizing power in a coup. The new constitution creates a powerful new position – the president of the council of ministers – who will oversee government affairs.
Togo’s future remains uncertain. The opposition’s planned protests could lead to a tense standoff with the government. The international community is urging restraint and a return to democratic principles. Only time will tell how these events will unfold and the impact they will have on Togo’s long-term stability.
Source: Reuters
