Togo’s Legislative Elections Commence Amid Controversial Constitutional Reforms – What You Need to Know

Togo’s legislative elections commenced on Monday after the outgoing parliament endorsed constitutional reforms that may prolong President Faure Gnassingbe’s 19-year reign.

As per the new charter passed in March, the president will now be chosen by parliament rather than through universal suffrage. The process for electing the head of state in the assembly remains uncertain, but the parliament will designate a role known as the president of the council of ministers.

Opposition parties have advocated for these constitutional amendments to enable Gnassingbe to potentially serve for life. With over four million registered voters selecting 113 lawmakers from a pool of 2,352 candidates, the electoral process is in full swing.

Polling stations opened at 0700 GMT, and preliminary results are anticipated by Tuesday. Togo has encountered prolonged resistance against the dominance of the Gnassingbe family in governance.

In a recent parliamentary vote, amendments were unanimously passed to reduce presidential terms to four years from five, with a two-term limit.