Togo’s government, led by President Faure Gnassingbe, has detained nine opposition politicians who have been vocal in their opposition to proposed constitutional changes that could potentially extend Gnassingbe’s nearly two-decade rule.
The detained opposition figures have been actively campaigning against revisions to the constitution, which they argue violate Togo’s existing constitutional framework. They have vehemently opposed what they view as an attempt to undermine the rights of the Togolese people and circumvent democratic principles.
The proposed constitutional amendments would alter the process of selecting the country’s president, allowing for the president to be chosen “without debate” by parliament for a single six-year term, rather than through direct public elections. This change could potentially enable Gnassingbe to extend his presidency until 2031 if re-elected in 2025, disregarding the time he has already spent in office.
Critics of the proposed reforms view them as a means for Gnassingbe to consolidate power and perpetuate his rule, particularly as his party maintains control over parliament.
The arrests come amidst escalating tensions and growing opposition to the constitutional reforms in Togo, a small West African nation known for its phosphate production.
President Gnassingbe has postponed parliamentary and regional elections initially scheduled for April 20, citing the need for further public consultation on the proposed constitutional changes.
The detention of opposition leaders has raised concerns about political freedoms and the state of democracy in Togo, prompting condemnation from both domestic and international observers.
Source: @Reuters, local media.
