01 Jul 2024 | 10:32 AM UTC
Togo: Opposition protests over new constitution possible nationwide through at least late July
Protests denouncing new constitution possible across Togo through at least late July. Avoid all protests.
Opposition protests over recent constitutional amendments are possible nationwide through at least late July. The parliament initially adopted a new constitution on March 25, which was revised and finally promulgated on May 6. Civil society groups gathered on June 30 in Lome to denounce what is perceived as a constitutional coup to allow President Faure Gnassingbe to remain in power indefinitely.
While it is possible that protests by opposition parties and members of civil society will persist for months to come, previous opposition demonstrations have been either banned by authorities or have seen little participation.
Likely gathering locations include the main urban centers of Lome and Sokode. Increased security and localized traffic disruptions are likely in areas subject to protest activity. In the event of protests, the potential for clashes with security forces is elevated.
Avoid all demonstrations. If violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Heed the instructions of authorities.
The constitutional reform transitions the country from a presidential to a parliamentary system. The President of the Council of Ministers, a newly created post elected by the Parliament, will be the leader of the majority party following the legislative elections for a six-year term and the de facto head of state. There will be no term limits for the President of the Council of Ministers should its party retain a majority and renew his mandate. The Parliament will elect the President, who will hold limited, mainly ceremonial powers. The new constitution will be implemented within a 12-month period. President Gnassingbe is likely to become the President of the Council of Ministers.
On April 29, Togo held its legislative and regional elections in which President Gnassingbe’s ruling party (Union pour la Republique, UNIR) retained a large majority in parliament, winning 108 seats out of a possible 113.
