The Togolese Parliament adopts a new Constitution, the opposition group criticizes it

The Parliament of Togo last Friday approved the reform of the Constitution which changes the system of governance of the country towards the rule of the Parliament. The changes have been criticized by opposition parties who say they allow President Faure Gnassingbe to continue clinging to power.

Apr 20, 2024 - 20:34
The Togolese Parliament adopts a new Constitution, the opposition group criticizes it

The move comes just days before Togo's April 29 parliamentary elections, where the opposition has dismissed the reform as a "constitutional coup" to create a new prime minister post that opponents say will allow Togo's president to avoid term limits. in power.

Togo's parliament had already adopted a new constitution on March 25, but President Gnassingbe asked lawmakers to vote again after the reform sparked political tension.

Opposition parties see the amendment as a way to extend the time of Gnassingbe, who has been in power since 2005 after succeeding his father who himself ruled the small West African nation for nearly four decades.

The current constitution would allow the Togolese leader to run for one last term in 2025.