Togo opposition groups unite to oppose constitutional changes
A fresh coalition of political and civil society organizations has emerged in Togo to challenge recent constitutional amendments that opposition leaders claim consolidate power for President Faure Gnassingbé. The newly formed Cadre National de Concertation pour le Changement au Togo (CNCC) held its inaugural public meeting in Lomé on May 9, marking a potential turning point in the country’s political landscape.
The CNCC brings together four opposition political parties and multiple civil society organizations, signaling a rare mobilization of Togo’s opposition forces. Public gatherings have been scarce in recent years, with the last major opposition event occurring over a year ago.
Constitutional reform under fire
The coalition’s primary objective is to contest the 2024 constitutional amendments that opposition figures argue were designed to extend President Gnassingbé’s grip on power. The controversial reforms eliminated direct presidential elections, replacing them with a parliamentary system where the head of government is now titled President of the Council—a position currently held by Gnassingbé.
Speaking at the Lomé meeting, David Dosseh of the Front Citoyen Togo Debout stated: “It was crucial for the Togolese people to demonstrate that they remain united and refuse to accept this constitutional fraud.” He added that the movement represents “a new phase of mobilization” against what many view as an unconstitutional power grab.
Opposition voices grow louder
Several prominent opposition figures took the stage, including Jean-Pierre Fabre, leader of the Alliance Nationale pour le Changement. He highlighted the case of activist Honoré Sitsopé Sokpor, known as Affectio, who was re-arrested on May 4 despite recent judicial release. Fabre condemned the detention as “arbitrary and vengeful,” accusing authorities of targeting critics of the regime.