Togo’s political landscape has entered a new chapter as President Faure Gnassingbé continues his rule without a presidential election, following the adoption of a controversial new constitution that transitions the country into a parliamentary system.
The constitutional overhaul, signed into law by Gnassingbé on May 6, 2024, replaces the presidency with a new position: “President of the Council.” This role is granted to the leader of the majority party or coalition in the National Assembly, effectively enabling Gnassingbé to remain in power without contesting the 2025 presidential election, which will no longer take place.
The new Article 47 of the constitution stipulates: “The leader of the majority party or the leader of the main party in a majority coalition in the National Assembly, following the official results confirmed by the Constitutional Court, shall become President of the Council.”
Gnassingbé, who has been in power since 2005 after succeeding his father, has now secured an indefinite political future under this revised system. On April 30, the ruling party, Union for the Republic (Unir), which dominates the National Assembly, submitted Gnassingbé’s name for the new role. The Assembly acknowledged the nomination and began the official notification process to the Constitutional Court.
“The appointment of the President of the Council marks not only a key step in implementing our new Constitution but also a significant milestone in our political history—indeed, the beginning of a new era for our country,” stated National Assembly President Kodjo Adedze following the announcement.
The move has sparked strong criticism from opposition parties and civil society organizations, many of which have labeled the constitutional change a “constitutional coup.” Several major opposition factions boycotted the legislative elections, citing lack of transparency and fairness.
Analysts note that the new arrangement consolidates executive power within a legislature dominated by the ruling party, raising concerns over democratic backsliding in the West African nation.
Togo: Faure Gnassingbé’s power extended without a presidential election
