Togo’s 2024 constitutional reforms are stirring controversy by shifting from a presidential to a parliamentary system, provoking fierce opposition from political leaders and civil groups who label the move a constitutional coup. While ruling lawmakers defend the action as promoting greater democratic participation, the opposition asserts it undermines the constitution and democracy itself, signaling impending political conflict.
Togo is currently facing political turmoil due to proposed constitutional reforms for 2024, which are set to transition the governance system from a presidential to a parliamentary model. Under this new structure, lawmakers will elect the head of state, a change that has provoked significant backlash from political figures and civil societal organizations. Critics argue that this alteration constitutes a constitutional coup and reflects a concerning trend of democratic regression in the nation.
The opposition is particularly vocal, with Jean-Pierre Fabre, President of the National Alliance for Change (ANC), taking a firm stand against the reforms. He asserted that the changes violate existing constitutional articles, stating, “Enough is enough, it’s over. We’re going to fight. Everyone knows that they violated Articles 52 and 59 (of the constitution).” Other opposition members echo this sentiment, suggesting that the reforms threaten the integrity of Togo’s constitution.
David Dosseh, the spokesperson for the Front Citoyen Togo Debout (FCTD), has characterized the situation as a coup d’état, declaring, “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, from the ‘Don’t Touch My Constitution!’ Front, has stated that they will not recognize the new constitutional changes, indicating ongoing resistance.
In contrast, representatives from the ruling party, Union for the Republic (UNIR), have defended the reforms. Lawmaker Kouméalo Anaté articulated that these revisions are intended to strengthen democratic inclusivity, claiming, “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.” Moreover, Vice President of the UNIR parliamentary group, Sénou Soklingbé, has sought to calm concerns, explaining the legislative process that prevents indefinite presidential tenure under the new framework.
The proposed constitutional reforms in Togo have ignited significant political strife, with opposition leaders denouncing them as a violation of constitutional integrity and a democratic encroachment. While the ruling party promotes the changes as a path toward inclusive governance, dissenting voices warn of potential ramifications akin to a constitutional coup. The situation remains critical as both sides prepare for ongoing conflict over the future of Togo’s political landscape.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
