Togo political standoff intensifies over constitutional reform

Togo is facing a political and legal standoff following a 2024 constitutional reform that transitioned the nation from a semi-presidential to a parliamentary system. The reform created the position of President of the Council, currently held by Faure Gnassingbé, and altered the method for designating the head of state. While supporters argue the change reorganizes institutions around Parliament, opponents claim it removes voters' ability to directly choose the president and could extend Gnassingbé's tenure.

The ECOWAS Court of Justice ruled on January 29, 2026, that the March 2024 revision constitutes an unconstitutional change of government under the African Charter on Democracy. In response, the Manifeste Génération Togo has rejected government-proposed dialogue, instead demanding a formal transition.

Legal expert and former coordinator of the Collectif Sauvons le Togo, Zeus Ajavon, has called for a comprehensive transition to address deep-seated moral and physical issues within the country. He advocates for a collaborative process involving the government, opposition, and civil society to ensure fundamental systemic changes.