Togo Opposition Accuses President of Power Grab with Constitutional Reforms

Opposition parties in Togo have denounced a proposed new constitution as a ploy by President Faure Gnassingbé to extend his family's 57-year rule over the West African nation. The constitutional reforms, which were approved by lawmakers last month, would transition Togo from a presidential to a parliamentary system.

Under the changes, the president would no longer be elected directly by the people but rather by the National Assembly. Supporters argue this would reduce the powers of the head of state by making the presidency a largely ceremonial role. However, the opposition contends that the reforms are designed to allow Gnassingbé to remain president until 2031 and then be appointed to the newly created position of prime minister, effectively perpetuating his grip on power.

Gnassingbé, who is already serving his fourth term, has faced mounting pressure to step down in recent years. In response to the public backlash over the proposed constitution, he paused the reforms and called for further consultations. But opposition leaders insist they will not back down until the changes are fully withdrawn.

The opposition boycotted the 2018 parliamentary elections and has called for protests against what they see as an attempt to consolidate power. Activists had planned demonstrations but these were banned by the government. The opposition accuses authorities of cracking down on dissent and preventing the public from expressing their views on the proposed constitution.

The political crisis in Togo highlights the challenges of democratic transitions in West Africa, where long-serving leaders have often sought to manipulate constitutions to extend their rule. The situation threatens to further destabilize the region at a time when several countries are contending with military coups and insurgencies.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) recently sent a delegation to Togo for an "information mission" ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled for 2024. In a statement, Togo's bishops conference questioned the timing of the constitutional changes and called for a broader public debate. "We wonder about the appropriateness of this change of constitution, about the moment chosen and about the real and profound reasons for such a change," the bishops said.

Key Takeaways

• Togo's opposition denounces proposed constitution as power grab by ruling family
• Reforms would transition Togo from presidential to parliamentary system, reducing president's powers
• Opposition claims changes aim to allow current president to remain in power until 2031
• Protests against the reforms banned, opposition accuses govt of cracking down on dissent
• Political crisis in Togo threatens regional stability amid coups and insurgencies in West Africa