Togo term-limit law allows president 10 more years of rule
Constitutional change caps presidential mandate, ostensibly in response to calls end to Gnassingbe dynasty
Lome — A change in Togo’s law voted through on Thursday would allow long-standing President Faure Gnassingbe to stay in power potentially until 2030, extending his family’s rule in the West African country to 63 years despite widespread protests. The constitutional change caps the presidential mandate to two five-year terms, ostensibly in response to calls from the opposition and street protesters for an end to a political dynasty that started when Gnassingbe’s father seized power in a coup in 1967. But the law does not take into account the three terms Gnassingbe has already served since succeeding his late father in 2005, the latest of which ends in 2020. “The National Assembly has decided to transform Togolese citizens into subjects of his majesty Gnassingbe,” said opposition member Brigitte Adjamagbo-Johnson as she called for all opponents to unite. The law was passed overnight after 90 of 91 members of parliament voted for it. The opposition boycotted legislative elections in...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.