Togo Jails Opposition Members Over Campaign Against New Constitution
A spokesperson for an opposition coalition stated on Thursday that nine Togolese politicians advocating against a proposed new constitution, which could potentially enable President Faure Gnassingbe to prolong his 19-year tenure, have been detained.
In the small nation known for its phosphate production, there is an increasing chorus of opposition regarding proposed constitutional reforms that may alter the method of presidential election.
According to spokesperson Thomas Nsoukpoe, several opposition coalition members were arrested Wednesday afternoon while they were conducting a campaign against the constitution in a market on the outskirts of the Togolese capital, Lome.
Others were detained at night during a meeting at the house of a coalition member.
The opposition in Togo initiated their campaign following the approval of the new constitution by the national assembly. This constitution extends presidential terms from 5 to 6 years but restricts presidents to serving only one term.
According to the new constitution, which implements a parliamentary style of governance, the president will no longer be chosen through general voting, but rather by parliamentary representatives.
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The constitution overlooks the duration of time already served in office, potentially allowing Faure Gnassingbe to remain in power until 2031 if he secures re-election in 2025.
In response to dissenting opinions, the president’s administration declared on Wednesday that there would be nationwide discussions regarding the amendment of the constitution. Additionally, they postponed the parliamentary and regional elections, which were originally slated for April 20.
Several parties condemned this decision and called for demonstrations on April 11, 12 and 13.
“As the electorate has been convened by decree, it is not possible to suspend the electoral campaign and postpone the elections using a simple announcement,” they said in a statement on Thursday.
The presidency did not immediately reply to Reuters requests for comment on the arrests made on Wednesday.
Togo Jails Opposition Members Over Campaign Against New Constitution
