Togo’s political landscape has undergone a dramatic shift with the adoption of a brand new constitution. The West African nation is stepping away from a presidential system, handing the reins of presidential election entirely to parliament.
Gone are the days of popular votes for Togo’s leader. Under the new system, lawmakers will choose the president for a single six-year term, effectively sidelining the public from directly electing their head of state. This move comes just weeks before the country gears up for legislative elections in April.
The change wasn’t exactly a nail-biter. Lawmakers overwhelmingly approved the new constitution, with a near-unanimous vote of 89 in favour.
However, the opposition, which boycotted the previous elections and raised concerns about irregularities, has minimal representation in parliament.
This dramatic power shift also creates a new position: the “president of the council of ministers.” This individual will wield significant authority, managing government affairs and holding the ultimate responsibility.
The role essentially becomes the true power centre, representing Togo on the international stage and steering the country’s day-to-day operations.
The new system marks Togo’s entry into its “fifth republic,” a significant change from the 1992 constitution.
