Togo’s 2024 Constitutional Reform: Controversies and Defenses

In 2024, Togo’s constitutional reform proposes changing from a presidential to a parliamentary system, raising concerns of a constitutional coup among opposition leaders and civil society. Prominent figures have accused the government of violating constitutional provisions while the ruling party defends the changes as a step towards enhanced democratic participation.

Togo’s proposed constitutional reform for 2024 has ignited significant political turmoil. The reform suggests a transition from a presidential to a parliamentary system where lawmakers will elect the head of state instead of the electorate. This decision has incited fierce opposition from various political figures and civil society, leading to allegations of a constitutional coup and fears of a decline in democratic principles.

Jean-Pierre Fabre, President of the National Alliance for Change (ANC), vehemently opposes the reform, citing violations of the constitution. He asserted, “Enough is enough, it’s over. We’re going to fight. Everyone knows that they violated Articles 52 and 59 (of the constitution).” This declaration underscores his commitment to resisting the reform.

David Dosseh, a representative of the Front Citoyen Togo Debout (FCTD), also condemned the proposed changes, characterizing them as a coup d’état. He stated, “Today, there’s a constitutional coup d’état taking place with impunity in Togo. But this time, we’re not going to accept it,” emphasizing a collective resolve to oppose the reforms.

Brigitte Kafui Adjamagbo-Johnson, a member of the ‘Don’t Touch My Constitution!’ Front and coordinator of the Democratic Opposition Coalition, reiterated this resistance. She distinctly noted, “We do not recognise this constitution. However, if they insist and present it to us, our response is very simple,” indicating ongoing defiance against the government’s efforts.

In contrast, lawmakers from the ruling Union for the Republic (UNIR) party have defended the constitutional changes. Kouméalo Anaté, a UNIR lawmaker, argued that the reforms promote greater democratic participation. He affirmed, “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.”

Vice President of the UNIR parliamentary group, Sénou Soklingbé, dismissed allegations that the reform would allow the president to remain in power indefinitely. 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. “, reinforcing the notion of legislative authority in the new framework.

The constitutional reform in Togo has sparked heated political debates, with serious accusations from the opposition regarding democratic integrity. The shift to a parliamentary system has been met with resistance from various factions, emphasizing a commitment to uphold constitutional rights. Meanwhile, the ruling party maintains that the reforms enhance participation in governance, highlighting the polarizing nature of the discourse surrounding Togo’s political future.

Original Source: globalsouthworld.com