Furious Protests Against Togo's Power Grab

Political Shifts and Protests in Togo

Togo has witnessed a significant political transformation with the introduction of a new constitution that has allowed President Faure Gnassingbé to transition into the role of prime minister. This move has effectively removed the constraints of presidential term limits, sparking widespread discontent among the population, particularly in the capital city of Lomé.

The protests have been ongoing, with at least five demonstrators losing their lives during confrontations with security forces. What is notable is that the traditional political opposition, which was expected to lead the demonstrations, has been largely subdued due to its poor performance in recent local elections. Instead, it is a coalition of musicians, bloggers, and activists who have become the driving force behind the growing frustration among young Togolese citizens.

This movement taps into a deep-seated weariness with a regime that has been in power for nearly six decades, first under Faure Gnassingbé and before him his father, Gnassingbé Éyadéma. This long-standing rule surpasses even the tenure of Cameroon’s President Paul Biya and Gabon’s former leaders, highlighting the unique political landscape in Togo.

Faure Gnassingbé, known for his strategic approach, quickly moved to restructure the country's constitutional framework to maintain his grip on power while downplaying his personal profile. The new constitution allows him to avoid re-election, shifting his role to that of prime minister, where he holds executive power and control over the armed forces.

The Union pour la Répubrique (Unir) party dominates the national assembly, ensuring continued support for the government. This dominance is reinforced by a gerrymandered constituency map that favors the northern regions while diminishing the influence of the southern coastal areas, which are more aligned with the opposition.

Despite claims from officials like Gilbert Bawara, the civil service and labour minister, that the 2024 election was fair, many critics argue that the opposition lacks the strength to challenge the ruling party effectively. Bawara also pointed to foreign activists as instigators of unrest, suggesting they are trying to destabilize the country.

The new constitutional changes were announced abruptly in early 2024 and swiftly approved by the government-dominated assembly without public consultation through a referendum. This lack of transparency has fueled further discontent among the populace.

The transition concluded in May, with Gnassingbé stepping down as president and assuming the role of prime minister. A ceremonial presidency was given to Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové, an 86-year-old former business minister. The regime presented this shift as a move toward a more democratic parliamentary system, aligning with Commonwealth traditions.

However, international attention has been diverted by conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, leading to minimal scrutiny of Togo’s political developments. Similarly, regional leaders within the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) have remained silent, possibly due to concerns about the stability of the bloc following the departure of three military-run countries.

On the streets of Lomé, the situation has escalated. Rapper Aamron, a vocal critic of the regime, released a satirical video calling for the celebration of Gnassingbé’s birthday. His arbitrary detention in May led to widespread protests, with hundreds taking to the streets. The situation took a darker turn when Aamron was found confined in a mental hospital, followed by a controversial video statement that he later disavowed.

Further protests in late June saw security forces confronting youths setting up burning barricades. Human rights groups reported numerous random detentions, including uninvolved passersby, while pro-government militias patrolled the streets. At least five people were killed, and two bodies were found in lagoons, raising questions about the circumstances of their deaths.

Cultural figures such as Aamron and poet Honoré Sitsopé Sokpor have become symbols of resistance, connecting with young Togolese in ways that traditional politicians cannot. This has led to a loss of faith in the formal political process, with many disillusioned by the lack of meaningful change.

While the recent local elections passed quietly, with Unir maintaining its dominance, opposition figures like Jean-Pierre Fabre noted the absence of other voters at polling stations, indicating a lack of engagement with the political system.

Critics view the new constitution as a tool to entrench the Gnassingbé dynasty, often referred to as a "republican monarchy" or "legalist authoritarianism." A leading human rights activist notes that popular frustration has reached unprecedented levels.

Historically, Togo has seen periods of mass protest, such as the 2017 church-led marches and the 2020 presidential election, where opposition candidate Agbeyomé Kodjo gained significant support. Although these movements have faced suppression, they continue to inspire resistance.

With the current constitutional changes, Gnassingbé aims to retain control while distancing himself from direct political scrutiny. However, the rise of cultural leaders and grassroots activists suggests that this strategy may not be sustainable.

On social media, the hashtag #FaureMustGo is gaining traction, alongside the M66 campaign, which stands for the "6 June Movement" commemorating Gnassingbé’s birthday. These movements reflect a growing demand for change among Togolese citizens.