Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Lomé, Togo’s capital, to oppose the government’s proposed constitutional changes, which critics say could entrench the ruling party’s hold on power. The demonstration, held on Saturday, was organized by a coalition of 12 opposition parties and civil society groups demanding greater transparency and democratic safeguards.
Concerns Over a Power Grab
The proposed constitutional reforms, introduced by the ruling Union for the Republic (UNIR) party, could significantly alter Togo’s political landscape. Protesters fear that the amendments would:
- Extend President Faure Gnassingbé’s rule by restructuring the presidency.
- Shift Togo from a presidential to a parliamentary system, potentially allowing the ruling party to maintain control through the legislature.
- Reduce checks and balances, making it harder for opposition parties to challenge government policies.
Opposition Leaders Speak Out
Prominent opposition figures, including Jean-Pierre Fabre of the National Alliance for Change (ANC) and Brigitte Adjamagbo-Johnson of the Democratic Convention of African Peoples (CDPA), joined the march, calling on Togolese citizens to reject any reform that undermines democracy.
“We will not accept a constitutional coup. This is an attempt to hold onto power indefinitely,” Fabre told reporters.
Government Defends Reforms
The government insists that the constitutional changes are necessary to modernize Togo’s governance and ensure greater stability. Officials argue that the shift to a parliamentary system aligns Togo with other democratic nations and will promote a more balanced power structure.
Growing Tensions Ahead of 2025 Elections
The protests come at a time of growing political tension in Togo, where President Faure Gnassingbé has ruled since 2005, following the death of his father, Gnassingbé Eyadéma, who led the country for 38 years. Critics warn that the constitutional amendments could pave the way for an indefinite extension of Gnassingbé’s rule ahead of the 2025 elections.
As pressure mounts, opposition leaders have vowed to continue mobilizing citizens until the government abandons or revises the proposed reforms.
