President Faure Gnassingbé commanded on Friday night that the National Assembly hold a second reading of the recently ratified constitution before it was voted on on Monday. The decision was made in reaction to the substantial interest in and criticism of the text’s new provisions, especially from civil society and opposition organizations.
According to a statement from the presidency, broadcasted on national television, the Head of State, acknowledging the public interest in the law, has instructed the President of the National Assembly to proceed with a second reading of the text. The statement emphasizes the principle of continual improvement, stating, “All things are subject to improvement.”
The approved text, passed earlier in the week by the Assembly, aims to transition Togo into a new Republic. Under its provisions, there would no longer be direct universal presidential elections. Instead, the leader of the majority party in the Assembly would automatically become the Council President for a six-year term, responsible for steering the nation’s policies.
The adoption of the constitution late Monday night triggered anger among segments of the opposition and civil society. Opposition parties and civil society organizations decried the move as a power grab. The bishops urged the President to delay the enactment of the passed text. Overall, there has been widespread disapproval, with even sections of the populace expressing confusion over the adoption of the text.
Is the President’s call for a new reading an attempt to ease tensions as Togo prepares for legislative and regional elections next month? This question arises amidst the backdrop of heightened political activity in the country.