Togo’s parliament has granted final approval to a new constitution that extends the president’s term, drawing criticism as opponents condemn the move as a coup.
The West African nation is transitioning from a presidential to a parliamentary system. Supporters of President Faure Gnassingbé argue that the changes diminish presidential authority by transforming the role into a ceremonial position.
However, the opposition contends that the reforms eliminate term limits, potentially enabling the president to extend his tenure until 2031.
They argue that this move perpetuates his family’s 57-year rule, with plans for him to assume the new role of “president of the council of ministers”, akin to a prime minister.
President Gnassingbé assumed office in 2005 following the passing of his father, who had served as president since 1967.
Last month, lawmakers approved the constitutional amendments.
However, amidst increasing public outcry, Mr. Gnassingbé halted the reforms, stating they would undergo additional consultations.
Human Rights Minister Yawa Djigbodi Tségan asserted that this action would “enhance democracy in the nation”. However, opposition CDPA party leader and former presidential candidate Brigitte Kafui Johnson denounced the constitutional changes as a “seizure of Power”.
Over the past few weeks, lawmakers supportive of the government have undertaken visits across the country, purportedly aimed at “engaging with and educating citizens about the constitutional reform”.
Customary rulers and select groups were the primary focus of the discussions, but no alterations were implemented as a consequence.
Widespread apprehension persists regarding public expression of opinions, given the potential targeting by authorities amid police crackdowns on anti-government protests.
In a recent incident, police officers armed with truncheons disbanded an opposition press conference held under the banner “Don’t Touch My Constitution”.
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