Togo’s 2024 Constitutional Reform: A Shift Towards Parliamentary Governance Under Controversy

Togo’s 2024 constitutional reform, shifting from a presidential to a parliamentary system where lawmakers elect the head of state, has ignited controversy. Opposition leaders claim it constitutes a constitutional coup, predicting negative consequences for democracy. Conversely, the ruling party defends the reform as a step toward enhanced democratic participation, highlighting a deep divide over the future of governance in Togo.

Togo currently faces significant political turmoil as the government’s proposed constitutional reform for 2024 transitions the country from a presidential to a parliamentary system. Under this new structure, the head of state will be elected by lawmakers rather than the general population, prompting intense backlash from political figures and civil society organizations. Critics have labeled this initiative a constitutional coup, raising alarms about the possible erosion of democratic practices in the country.

Leading the opposition is Jean-Pierre Fabre, president of the National Alliance for Change (ANC), who vehemently contests the reform. He has stated, “Enough is enough, it’s over. We’re going to fight. Everyone knows that they violated Articles 52 and 59 (of the constitution).” Similarly, David Dosseh, spokesperson for the Front Citoyen Togo Debout (FCTD), condemned the proposed changes, asserting that a constitutional coup is underway. Dosseh proclaimed, “Today, there’s a constitutional coup d’état taking place with impunity in Togo. But this time, we’re not going to accept it.”

Brigitte Kafui Adjamagbo-Johnson, a member of the ‘Don’t Touch My Constitution!’ Front, added her opposition as a coordinator of the Democratic Opposition Coalition (DMP). She emphasized her refusal to recognize the reform, stating, “We do not recognise this constitution. However, if they insist and present it to us, our response is very simple.” Such sentiments indicate a collective resistance against the new constitutional framework.

In contrast, the ruling Union for the Republic (UNIR) party defends the reform, claiming it will promote greater democratic participation and improved governance. Kouméalo Anaté, a lawmaker from the UNIR party, remarked, “Togo has just opened a new page in its march towards a country that is, shall we say, an even more inclusive and participatory democracy.” Furthermore, Vice President of the UNIR parliamentary group, Sénou Soklingbé, dismissed concerns regarding the potential for indefinite presidential rule. He clarified, “No one can say that everything is done to ensure that the President of the Republic, if he were to become the President of the Council tomorrow, remains indefinitely in power. It is the majority of the National Assembly that determines who will be the President of the Council.”

The constitutional reform proposed by Togo’s government has aroused substantial controversy, attracting criticism from various opposition leaders who view the changes as a threat to democratic governance. While the ruling party insists that the reforms promote inclusivity and participation, dissenting voices warn of a constitutional coup that could undermine longstanding democratic principles. This unfolding political drama underscores the tension between governance aspirations and civil liberties in Togo.

Original Source: globalsouthworld.com