Togo’s parliament has given its final approval to a new constitution that extends the president’s term, a move criticized by many as a coup.
The country will transition from a presidential to a parliamentary system. While President Faure Gnassingbé’s supporters argue that the changes reduce his powers by making the presidency ceremonial, opposition voices argue that the reforms eliminate term limits, potentially allowing Gnassingbé to remain in office until 2031.
These amendments, initially approved by lawmakers last month, were paused by Gnassingbé due to public outrage but have now been reinstated. Despite claims by Human Rights Minister Yawa Djigbodi Tségan that the changes will enhance democracy, opposition leader Brigitte Kafui Johnson has condemned them as a power grab.
Recent visits by pro-government lawmakers aimed at discussing the reforms with various groups have not resulted in any modifications.
The atmosphere of fear has grown, with people wary of expressing dissent publicly due to the authorities’ crackdown on antigovernmental protests.
