July 27, 2025

Blog Post

The Raven Report > World > Togo’s President Faces Backlash Over Constitutional Changes Enabling Indefinite Rule

Togo’s President Faces Backlash Over Constitutional Changes Enabling Indefinite Rule

LOME, Togo: Togo’s President Faure Gnassingbé is facing mounting calls to step down amid widespread unrest sparked by recent constitutional changes that could allow him to rule indefinitely. The controversy intensified after Gnassingbé was sworn in as President of the Council of Ministers in May—a powerful position with no official term limits, enabling him to be re-elected by parliament indefinitely. Opposition leaders have condemned this move as a “constitutional coup,” accusing the government of undermining democratic principles.

Protests erupted in the capital, Lomé, despite a ban on demonstrations since 2022 following a deadly attack at the city’s main market. Security forces responded with a harsh crackdown, arresting around 80 protesters. While about half have been released, at least 25 remain in custody, with reports of mistreatment and beatings during arrests sparking outrage among human rights groups. Aimé Adi, director of Amnesty International’s Togo office, condemned the violent response and called for the immediate release of all detainees.

A coalition of political groups, known as “Hands Off My Constitution,” has voiced strong opposition to Gnassingbé’s extended rule, emphasizing that after 20 years of authoritarian governance, the people demand change. The coalition insists the regime no longer serves the interests of the Togolese people and must come to an end.

Public prosecutor Talaka Mawama defended the government’s actions, labeling the protests as “a revolt against the institutions of the Republic.” However, critics argue that the constitutional amendments and subsequent crackdown threaten to erode democratic gains in a region already grappling with political instability and frequent coups.

As tensions rise, the situation in Togo highlights the ongoing struggle between authoritarianism and democracy in West Africa. The world watches closely as citizens demand accountability and a government that respects constitutional limits and human rights.

Share away..

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *