Togo has introduced a groundbreaking constitutional reform, transitioning from a presidential system to a parliamentary system, where the parliament now elects the president of the republic. This change significantly alters the nation’s power structure and political dynamics, sparking debate and protests among opposition leaders who have criticized it as a “constitutional coup.”
Key Changes in the Constitution
- Shift to a Parliamentary System:
- The executive is now led by two figures:
- President of the Republic (Head of State): A symbolic role with limited powers.
- President of the Council of Ministers (Head of Government): Responsible for policymaking and leading the parliamentary majority.
- The president of the republic’s actions require the countersignature of the president of the council of ministers.
- The executive is now led by two figures:
- Judiciary Overhaul:
- The supreme court has been replaced by a court of cassation, which now heads the justice system.
- Judges of the constitutional court are appointed by the president of the council of ministers, parliament, and the supreme council of the judiciary, serving a single nine-year term.
- Independent Institutions:
- The High Authority for Regulating Print, Broadcasting, and Digital Communication has replaced the previous broadcasting authority to include oversight of online platforms.
- The Citizen’s Protector replaces the Mediator of the Republic to safeguard citizens from public administration abuses.
- Constitutional Scope:
- The revised constitution has been condensed to 100 articles, down from 159.
Motivations Behind the Reform
Proponents claim the changes aim to:
- Strengthen democracy and enhance citizen rights and freedoms.
- Improve institutional efficiency and political stability.
- Foster greater citizen involvement in governance and decision-making.
However, critics argue the reforms may reduce the power of the people, shifting influence toward their parliamentary representatives.
Implications for Togo’s Power Dynamics
- The new system creates a flexible separation of powers where the legislature and executive are closely intertwined but retain the ability to dismiss each other.
- The balance of power now centers on the parliament, which plays a pivotal role in appointing both the president of the republic and the president of the council.
Impact on Democratic Processes
- Legislative elections will now hold more significance than presidential elections.
- Smaller political parties may collaborate to form larger coalitions, potentially reshaping the multiparty system.
- The election of the president of the council by parliamentary representatives instead of a direct vote by citizens may diminish direct public influence in governance.
Potential Longevity of President Faure Gnassingbé’s Leadership
- President Faure Gnassingbé, who has been in power since 2005, could transition to the role of president of the council, retaining significant authority.
- This shift could allow him to circumvent presidential term limits and remain in power indefinitely, provided his party maintains a parliamentary majority.
Controversy and Opposition Reaction
- Opposition leaders have labeled the reform a “constitutional coup,” citing the lack of a referendum for such a significant overhaul.
- The reforms are seen as a strategic move to consolidate power within the ruling party, raising concerns over their long-term impact on democracy.
Looking Ahead
While the constitutional changes aim to modernize Togo’s governance, they also raise critical questions about the balance of power, democratic representation, and the potential for indefinite leadership. As the country transitions to this new system, its success will depend on how effectively the reforms are implemented and whether they truly benefit the Togolese people.
