Togo’s political tensions are escalating as opposition parties filed a lawsuit with a regional court challenging a constitutional reform they claim allows President Faure Gnassingbé to extend his rule.
The contested amendment transforms Togo from a presidential to a parliamentary system. Passed by the Parliament in March and April, the opposition argues its validity is compromised as the body’s term has expired due to delayed elections.
A document obtained by AFP reveals a lawsuit filed with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) court by 13 opposition groups. They accuse the government of violating democratic principles and good governance.
The lawsuit demands the court overturn the reform, citing a lack of public debate and political consensus. Additionally, it claims the state infringed upon the opposition’s rights by hindering protests against the changes.
Critics view the reform as a maneuver by Gnassingbé, in power since 2005, to perpetuate his family’s grip on Togo. His father ruled for nearly 40 years before passing the presidency to him through the military.
The opposition terms the reforms an “institutional coup,” fearing they pave the way for Gnassingbé to bypass term limits. The new system establishes a largely symbolic presidency, while power resides with the prime minister-like position of President of the Council of Ministers.
The ruling party, Union for the Republic Party (UNIR), maintains the reforms strengthen democracy by transferring power to the parliament. Under the new system, the party leader with the majority automatically assumes the Prime Minister role, a position potentially tailored for Gnassingbé.
This lawsuit comes as the ECOWAS faces challenges to its regional influence. Three member states are currently under military rule following coups, and Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have withdrawn from the organization.
In December, ECOWAS demanded the release of Niger’s ousted president, but the military junta refused. The court’s response to Togo’s lawsuit will be closely watched, with implications for regional stability and democratic principles.
