(3 Minutes Read)
The new constitutional framework, introduced in early 2024, without a public referendum, transfers all executive authority to the Prime Minister from the President and reduces the presidency to a ceremonial role.
Protests continue in Togo following the government’s adoption of a new constitution that allows long-time leader Faure Gnassingbé to remain in power indefinitely as Prime Minister. Capital, Lomé, has seen widespread demonstrations, where at least five people lost their lives.
The new constitutional framework, introduced in early 2024, without a public referendum, transfers all executive authority to the Prime Minister from the President and reduces the presidency to a ceremonial role. Faure Gnassingbé, who has ruled since 2005, was officially installed as prime minister in May. The new president, 86-year-old Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové, was selected by the legislature.
It is alleged that the changes can allow Gnassingbé to retain control without facing future elections. The Union pour la République (Unir) party, which dominates the national assembly, can remain firmly in power riding on the back of its support base in the northern region.
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Protests have largely been led by young people, artists, and online activists, rather than the traditional opposition, which performed poorly in recent local elections. Government officials maintain the election was fair and argue that demonstrations must remain lawful.
