During a press briefing at the Quai d’Orsay this Thursday, the political situation in Togo was discussed, particularly the recent constitutional change implemented by Faure Gnassingbé’s regime.
Christophe Lemoine, Deputy Spokesperson for the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was questioned on this issue by Thomas Dietrich, a French journalist recently expelled from Togo
When asked about France’s perception of the constitutional coup in Togo, Lemoine response was apparently diplomatic. “In Togo, there is a situation that we are following with great attention. We have called on all political actors to engage in a transparent, inclusive, and calm political dialogue in order to restore… a clear system, in any case.”
This response from the Quai d’Orsay raises questions about France’s understanding of the new regime. Meanwhile, Faure and his supporters tout its merits.
Video in French: The Togolese issue is addressed at the 9th minute.
The Togolese parliament recently passed a new constitutional change abolishing the presidential regime. The new constitution stipulates that the President should be elected by the Members of Parliament. This initiative is globally seen as a way for the ruling party to prolong their long stay in power. Their subsequent large win in parliamentary elections has strengthened their grip on power.
Faure Gnassingbé came to power in 2005 after the death of his father, Eyadema, who ruled the country for over thirty years. With the new constitution, he could lead the West African nation for another eight years.
However, civil society activists and the Togolese opposition are expressing strong opposition to this new constitution. Some observers fear that tensions may arise in the coming days.
