Togo’s Political Landscape Transforms: A Shift to Parliamentary Power
In a historic move that marks a significant shift in Togo’s political landscape, the country has adopted a new constitution that transitions the nation from a presidential to a parliamentary system. This pivotal change grants the parliament the authority to elect the president, a decision that has been met with both acclaim and scrutiny. The new constitution, which was passed with an overwhelming majority, stipulates that the president will now serve a single six-year term, elected by the parliament without public debate. This development comes ahead of the upcoming legislative elections and is seen as a step that could potentially extend the current president’s tenure.
The constitutional amendments were proposed by members of the ruling party, Union for the Republic (UNIR), and were adopted almost unanimously, with 89 votes in favor, one against, and one abstention. The opposition, which has been underrepresented due to a boycott of the last legislative elections, has voiced concerns over the changes, citing past irregularities in the electoral process. The new constitution introduces the role of “president of the council of ministers,” who will hold significant authority over government affairs and be accountable for their management. This position will be filled by the leader of the party or coalition that wins the legislative elections, further cementing the power within the elected parliamentary majority.
The shift to a parliamentary system represents the dawn of Togo’s fifth republic, with the last major constitutional revision dating back to 1992. The current president, Faure Gnassingbé, who has been in power since 2005 following the death of his father, General Gnassingbé Eyadéma, could potentially extend his rule under the new constitution, which does not account for the time already spent in office. Critics argue that this move could pave the way for a constitutional coup, perpetuating a political dynasty that has controlled Togo since 1967.
The new constitution also addresses the tenure of future presidents, limiting it to a single term, albeit extended by one year compared to the previous maximum of two five-year terms. This change has sparked a debate on the balance of power and the democratic process in Togo, with some viewing it as a means to weaken the future presidency while others see it as a measure to ensure stability and continuity.
The international community is closely watching these developments, as constitutional changes in African nations have often led to extended terms for incumbent leaders. Togo’s move aligns with a regional trend where several countries have amended their constitutions, raising questions about the implications for democracy and governance in West and Central Africa.
As Togo prepares for its legislative and regional elections in early 2024, the new constitution is set to redefine the political arena, with the president’s election by parliament poised to be a defining moment in the country’s democratic evolution. The full impact of these constitutional reforms on Togo’s political future remains to be seen, as the nation embarks on a new chapter in its governance.
Une des principales nouveautés est le passage d’un régime présidentiel à un régime parlementaire, avec l’élection du “Président du conseil des ministres” par l’Assemblée nationale pour un mandat de six ans. Le Président de la République du Togo sera élu par l’Assemblée nationale et le Sénat en congrès pour un mandat unique de six ans.
La Constitution prévoit également la déclaration des droits et devoirs des citoyens du Togo, la création d’une Haute Autorité contre la corruption et la refonte de la justice ordinaire. Cette décision intervient alors que les députés ont atteint la fin de leur mandat, suscitant des inquiétudes au sein de l’opposition extraparlementaire.Certains membres de cette opposition dénoncent un coup d’État constitutionnel, affirmant que les députés n’avaient plus le droit de légiférer.
