Togo Opposition Calls for Protests Over Constitutional Changes Extending President's Rule

Togo's opposition parties and civil society groups have renewed calls for widespread popular protests after lawmakers approved constitutional changes that are likely to extend the 19-year rule of President Faure Gnassingbe. The Dynamique pour la Majorité du Peuple (DMP) opposition coalition and other signatories issued a statement criticizing the changes, which relate to the president's term limits.

The constitutional amendments, approved by Togo's parliament, transform the country from a presidential to a parliamentary system. The president will no longer be elected by universal suffrage but by members of parliament. The changes also introduce shortened presidential terms of four years with a two-term limit. However, the term limits do not take into account time already spent in office, potentially allowing Gnassingbe to stay in power until 2033 if re-elected in 2025.

The opposition has called the changes a "coup d'etat" and a political maneuver to allow Gnassingbe to extend his tenure for life. They have vowed to organize large-scale action to oppose the reforms. "The Togolese opposition is resisting a constitutional amendment that could extend President Faure Gnassingbe's 19-year rule in the country," the opposition stated.

Why this matters: The constitutional changes in Togo reflect a broader trend in the West and Central African region of leaders consolidating power and suppressing dissent, contributing to political instability and social unrest. The situation raises concerns about the concentration of power and the potential for further extensions of Gnassingbe's rule, especially given his party's control of parliament.

The U.S. State Department has expressed deep concern over the changes being approved "without releasing the text to the Togolese people" and has urged the government to allow open and informed debate, ensure inclusivity and transparency, and respect the right to peaceful assembly. Violent police crackdowns on political demonstrations have been routine under Gnassingbe's rule in Togo.

The government claims the changes will "improve democracy", but the opposition argues that the reforms remove limits on Gnassingbe's stay in office. The constitutional reforms were initially approved by lawmakers last month, but Gnassingbe paused them for further consultations amid public anger. Elections have been rescheduled for April 29, and the new political landscape in Togo will be shaped by these parliamentary elections.

Key Takeaways

• Togo's opposition condemns constitutional changes to extend president's rule.
• Reforms transform Togo from presidential to parliamentary system, altering term limits.
• Opposition calls changes a "coup d'etat" and vows large-scale protests.
• U.S. expresses concern over lack of transparency and public debate.
• Parliamentary elections on April 29 will shape Togo's new political landscape.