‘The International Community Must Send A Clear Message That Seizing Power Will Not Be Tolerated’ — Global Issues
Sep 11 (IPS) –
CIVICUS discusses the abuse of civil society organizations in Togo with a human rights defender who asked not to be identified for security reasons.
Political tensions in Togo have increased following the recent adoption of constitutional reforms. Under the new parliamentary system, the president will be elected by parliament instead of popular vote, and a powerful new position of President of the Council of Ministers will be created. Allegations are that these changes will enable President Faure Gnassingbé to continue in power. Gnassingbé has ruled Togo since 2005, when he took over from his father, who took power in a 1967 coup. The government suppressed protests against the reforms, disrupted civil society meetings, arbitrarily arrested and detained protesters and arrested and deported journalists for reporting on the unrest.
On March 25, the National Assembly of Togo adopted a new constitution that significantly changes the country’s governance from a presidential to a parliamentary system. The changes were not put to a referendum, but were decided through transparent legislative processes. The main changes are the abolition of direct presidential elections and the creation of the powerful role of the President of the Council of Ministers. Similar to the prime minister, the president is appointed by the parliament for a six-year term that can be extended indefinitely if he receives the support of the majority. This removes the two-term limit imposed by the 2019 constitution, which was introduced after massive public protests.
The new constitution sparked much debate and came amid an already tense political climate, with parliamentary and regional elections scheduled for April 13 postponed several times while lawmakers debated constitutional changes. Political parties, civil society organizations (CSOs), the Catholic Church and part of the population see it as an attempt by the ruling family to hold on to power, as the amendments will add 19 years to President Faure Gnassingbé and 57 years. the powerful rule of the Gnassingbé family.
We strongly condemn the adoption of the new constitution and the lack of transparency in the process. This is a coup d’état with a law that restricts the political rights of citizens, exacerbates political instability and undermines the rule of democracy.
What changes are needed to ensure true multi-party democracy in Togo?
First, it is important to restore direct presidential elections based on universal suffrage, because the electoral system must truly reflect the will of the people. But the president should not be allowed to rule indefinitely, so it is also important to introduce term limits for the president and other key officials to prevent concentration of power and promote accountability.
In addition, an independent electoral commission should be established to restore public confidence in a system that seems to be biased towards the ruling party. This commission should oversee all electoral processes and ensure that they are free, fair and transparent.
It is also important to ensure equal access to campaign resources for all political parties. Proper media coverage and campaign financing can contribute to a more competitive and representative election process. It is equally important to strengthen legal protections. All groups should be allowed to work freely without interference or fear of persecution and violence from state authorities.
We need to increase public participation. The reforms should facilitate platforms for CSOs to engage in political discussions. We must support grassroots organizations with resources and training to help them mobilize people and educate them about democratic principles and their rights.
Civil society in Togo is already pushing for these changes. Groups like ‘Touche pas à ma constitution’ (‘Don’t touch my constitution’) organize protests, raise awareness and hold public meetings to educate people and oppose the new constitution. They also lodged complaints with regional organizations such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), demanding the repeal of the new constitution and the restoration of democratic laws. CSOs and democratic political parties represent one side of the demand for democratic reforms.
How has the government responded to these protests?
The government responded to the protests with force aimed at silencing the opposition. Many opposition leaders and activists have been arrested. On March 26, law enforcement and security forces shut down two press conferences organized by political parties and CSOs on the grounds that the organizers did not have proper permits. This was a clear attempt by the government to silence dissenting voices. On 3 April, nine leaders of the political opposition Dynamique Mgr Kpodzro were also arrested for ‘disrupting public order’. They were released after six days.
The use of violence, a hallmark of the Gnassingbé regime, has created a climate of fear. Anyone who participates in counter-activities is branded as a criminal who threatens public order and prosecuted. This has a negative impact on social activists. Many people fear arrest or violent attacks if they engage in political discourse or participate in protests. This criminalization undermines our ability to effectively mobilize and advocate for democratic change.
As our freedom of speech and assembly has been severely curtailed, we have found it increasingly difficult to organize events, hold press conferences or convey our messages without interference from the security forces. This is increasingly alienating us from society. The suppression of dissent has reduced public trust in the government and CSOs, as people become disenchanted with the political process and the weak foundations of democracy.
How can the international community help address the suppression of civil liberties in Togo?
The international community can play an important role through lobbying and supporting democratic reforms. Public condemnation and resolutions by international organizations such as the United Nations and the African Union can help highlight these issues and push for the necessary changes. International agencies and representatives should communicate directly with Togolese officials to address concerns.
They should also support the local community by providing funding, resources and training. This support is essential to strengthen the capacity of CSOs to advocate for democracy and human rights, and to mobilize and empower people.
Independent monitoring and reporting mechanisms are essential to assess the political situation, ensure transparency in upcoming elections and document human rights violations. If violations continue, the international community should consider punishing key officials and making development aid and assistance conditional on respect for democratic principles and human rights. This can be an incentive for the government to make meaningful changes.
ECOWAS is also in a position to mediate between the government, opposition groups and local civil society organizations to promote an inclusive and democratic environment. At a time when democracy is on the decline in West Africa, with four countries experiencing coups since 2020 and 15 leaders exceeding term limits, ECOWAS must take strong action against unconstitutional reforms such as those recently seen in Togo and send a clear message. that power grab will not be tolerated.
Public space in Togo is rated ‘compressed’ by CIVICUS Monitor.
Follow @IPSNewsUNBureau
Follow IPS News UN Bureau on Instagram
© Inter Press Service (2024) — All Rights ReservedOriginal source: Inter Press Service
