Lomé, Togo – A wave of protests has swept across Togo, as citizens demand the reversal of the 2024 constitutional changes that they argue have eroded the country’s democratic foundation. Saturday’s rally in Vogan marked a significant gathering, with opposition leaders leading a call for a return to the previous constitution, which limited the presidency to two terms.
The rally, which saw several hundred supporters, began with a traditional libation ceremony before the national anthem was sung. Banners and placards opposing the constitutional reform were prominently displayed. “.
The constitutional change that took place in Togo in 2024 is completely illegal; it is a constitutional coup d’état, “declared David Dosseh, the spokesperson for the civil society organization Front Citoyen Togo Debout. Opposition to the reforms, which established a parliamentary system and transferred executive power to the President of the Council of Ministers—a position currently held by Faure Gnassingbé—has been vocal.
The ECOWAS court of justice recently ruled that the reform contravenes Togo’s democratic principles, calling it an “unconstitutional change of government. “Despite the ruling not being legally binding, the opposition is hopeful it will mobilize public support. Maitre Dodji Apevon, president of the Democratic Force, emphasized the need for citizen awakening: “It’s the awakening of our fellow citizens, because when you’re in a dictatorship, it’s only through the awakening of the population that things change. “.
The new constitution has allowed Gnassingbé, who has been in power since 2005, to be re-elected indefinitely by Parliament.
The role of the national president is now largely ceremonial, limited to a single six — year term.
The protests have been marked by clashes with security forces, with reports of at least five demonstrators losing their lives in recent weeks.
The situation underscores the growing political tensions in the country and the wider region.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africanews
Source: Rédaction Africanews
