Demonstrations in Togo

Soldiers in Togo used tear gas and batons on Thursday to disperse hundreds of demonstrators blocking the capital's main streets. The protests, which have been ongoing since Wednesday, are directed against the power struggle of longtime ruler Faure Gnassingbé and are demanding his resignation. Faure Gnassingbé served as Minister of Equipment, Mines, Posts, and Telecommunications (2003–2005). He became President of Togo in 2005 following the death of his father, following a controversial, military-backed succession. He won several re-elections despite disputed results and allegations of election rigging. He oversaw constitutional changes, including a 2024 reform that transitioned Togo from a presidential to a parliamentary system. This made the presidency largely ceremonial and created the powerful role of President of the Council of Ministers. Since May 2025, he has served as President of the Council of Ministers, the new executive head of government. These demonstrations were triggered by the controversial constitutional amendments passed in April 2024. The trigger: Constitutional amendment (April 2024): The Togolese parliament, dominated by President Faure Gnassingbé's ruling UNIR party, passed a new constitution. This constitution ushered in the transition from a presidential system to a parliamentary system in Togo. Key changes: The president becomes a largely representative figure, elected by parliament (not directly by the people) for a six-year term. The prime minister (president of the council of ministers) becomes head of government and exercises most executive power. This office is held by the leader of the majority party in parliament, with no term limits. The demonstrations in Togo are a direct reaction to the constitutional reforms, which are perceived as a power grab by the long-serving president to extend his family's rule indefinitely. The transition to a parliamentary system, combined with the lack of public consultation and fears of reduced accountability, has led to considerable public anger, and persistent protests have been met with government violence. The political crisis remains unresolved as the country heads toward elections under this controversial new system. @https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faure_Gnassingb%25C3%25A9