The Republic of Togo is at a critical juncture in its history, with fundamental questions being raised about the nature of power, the role of citizens, and the respect for the rule of law. President Faure Gnassingbé has been in power for over 21 years, having succeeded his father, Gnassingbé Eyadema, in 2005. The Eyadema family has ruled Togo for nearly six decades, with Gnassingbé Eyadema leading the country for almost 38 years. This prolonged period of family rule has raised concerns about the country's democratic progress.
A constitutional reform was introduced in 2024, which transformed Togo from a Fourth to a Fifth Republic. The new constitution established a parliamentary system, where the president is designated by the Parliament and serves a largely representative role. The president of the Council of ministers, currently held by Faure Gnassingbé, wields significant executive power. However, the reform has been criticized for not limiting the number of terms for the president of the Council, potentially allowing for further extensions of family rule.
The ECOWAS Court of Justice delivered a landmark ruling on January 29, 2026, condemning the constitutional reform. The court concluded that the modification, adopted in March 2024, constituted an unconstitutional change of government. The ruling was based on an examination of the circumstances surrounding the adoption of the reform by a legislature whose term had expired. While the court did not annul the 2024 Constitution or order a return to the previous regime, its conclusion has significant implications for Togo's democratic trajectory.
The Togolese army has played a significant role in the country's history, particularly in the exercise of power. The military has been involved in several key events, including the assassination of the country's first president, Sylvanus Olympio, in 1963, and Gnassingbé Eyadema's coup in 1967. The army's involvement in politics has raised concerns about its neutrality and subordination to civilian institutions. The military's role in Faure Gnassingbé's succession in 2005 further highlights the need for a clear separation of powers.
The international community, including the ECOWAS and the African Union, has expressed concerns about Togo's democratic progress. The organizations have called for the country to respect its regional obligations and ensure a smooth transition of power. The Togolese government faces pressure to address these concerns and implement reforms that promote democratic governance and the rule of law.
The controversy surrounding the constitutional reform and the ECOWAS Court of Justice's ruling has significant implications for Togo's future. The government must navigate these challenges while addressing the country's long-standing issues with family rule and democratic deficits. The situation highlights the need for Togo to consolidate its democratic institutions and ensure that power is exercised in a transparent and accountable manner.
As Togo moves forward, it is essential to consider the role of the military, the importance of democratic institutions, and the need for accountability. The country's history serves as a reminder of the risks associated with military intervention in politics and the importance of ensuring that power is exercised in accordance with the rule of law. The international community will be watching closely to see how Togo addresses these challenges and promotes democratic governance.
Key points
- The ECOWAS Court of Justice has condemned Togo's constitutional reform, citing concerns about its adoption and implications for democratic governance.
- President Faure Gnassingbé has been in power for over 21 years, marking a prolonged period of family rule in Togo.
- The Togolese army has played a significant role in the country's history, particularly in the exercise of power, raising concerns about its neutrality and subordination to civilian institutions.
