Johannesburg, South Africa — The ECOWAS Court of Justice has ruled that Togo’s recent reforms establishing a parliamentary system are unconstitutional.
The decision was announced on Thursday and followed a legal challenge brought by political parties and rights organizations.
The reforms, which were adopted in March 2024, shifted the country’s system of government from a presidential to a parliamentary one, with the president to be elected by lawmakers for a single 6-year term.
The Court found that the reforms violated democratic principles as they were passed by a parliament whose mandate had expired, constituting an unconstitutional change of government under African democratic standards. Political parties and rights organizations that filed the case welcomed the Court’s decision, which, although not legally binding, offers new legal arguments for opponents.
The ruling is seen as a significant setback for President Faure Gnassingbé, who has been in office since 2005 and faced criticism over attempts to extend his term. Opponents view the reform as a power grab aimed at circumventing presidential term limits and keeping Gnassingbé in power indefinitely.
The government and its supporters argue that the reforms strengthen democracy and institutional stability, aligning with the country’s current socio-political context.
The ECOWAS Court’s decision may lead to further political tensions in Togo, with the opposition and civil society groups likely to leverage the ruling in their efforts to challenge the government.
Meanwhile, the government may pursue an appeal or continue pushing its reform agenda.
The ruling underscores the importance of democratic principles and the rule of law in African governance and highlights the role of regional bodies in upholding these standards.
As Togo navigates the implications of the ECOWAS Court’s decision, the nation’s political climate remains precarious.
*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
