Thousands Gather in Togo to Protest Constitutional Reform
In a demonstration held at Vogan, southern Togo, hundreds of protesters marched on Sunday against the adoption of the country’s new constitution, which they claim allows President Faure Gnassingbé to perpetuate his power.
The gathering, organized by the CNCC coalition, comprising several opposition parties and civil society organizations, took place about 60 kilometers from Lomé. It is the second rally in three months for this coalition, following an initial mobilization held in May.
Protesters brandished banners bearing slogans such as ‘No to Unconstitutional Government Change’ or ‘Constitutional Coup’, denouncing what they perceive as an illegitimate reform.
‘The 2024 constitution is entirely illegal. It’s a constitutional coup that Togolese will never accept,’ stated David Dosseh, spokesperson for the FCTD, one of the organizations behind the rally.
Entered into force in 2024, the new Fundamental Law has fundamentally altered the country’s institutions. It abolished direct presidential elections and established a parliamentary regime. President Gnassingbé currently holds the position of president of the Council, the highest executive post in the country.
The opposition and several civil society actors believe that this reform aims to extend his rule indefinitely, whereas the government defends a text that it claims reinforces the representation of institutions.
Tensions surrounding this reform have already led to protests in 2025, resulting in seven deaths according to civil society, while the prosecution cites five deaths by drowning.
In a January 29 ruling, the West African Community Court of Justice deemed the reform ‘an unconstitutional change of government.’ The Togolese government rejected this decision, arguing that the court exceeded its jurisdiction, limited to controlling human rights and community law, without being able to assess the constitutionality of internal laws.
