Togo's "Constitutional Coup": Gnassingbe Consolidates Power

Togo's "Constitutional Coup": Gnassingbe Consolidates Power

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Togo's "Constitutional Coup": Gnassingbe Consolidates Power

Following a constitutional amendment, Togolese President Faure Gnassingbe stepped down in May 2024 but retained significant power as head of the new Council of Ministers, prompting accusations of a "constitutional coup" and raising concerns about democratic backsliding.

English
Germany
PoliticsHuman Rights ViolationsHuman RightsDemocracyAfricaTogoGnassingbeConstitutional Coup
Union For The Republic (Unir)Open Society Initiative For West Africa (Osiwa)Rosa Luxemburg FoundationAfrican Union (Au)
Faure GnassingbeJean-Lucien Savi De ToveGnassingbe EyademaPape Ibrahima KaneFredson GuilengeEsso-Dong Divin Aymard KongahFaustin-Archange TouaderaYoweri MuseveniPaul BiyaDenis Sassou-NguessoAlassane OuattaraTeodoro Obiang NguemaAssimi Goita
What are the broader regional and international implications of Gnassingbe's power consolidation strategy?
Gnassingbe's power grab follows a pattern among African leaders using constitutional amendments to circumvent electoral processes. This tactic, exemplified by leaders in the Central African Republic, Uganda, and Cameroon, allows for indefinite rule and weakens democratic institutions. The lack of term limits and systemic repression of dissent facilitate such maneuvers.
How has Togolese President Faure Gnassingbe's recent actions impacted the country's democratic processes and governance?
In May 2024, Togolese President Faure Gnassingbe stepped down, succeeded by Jean-Lucien Savi de Tove. However, Gnassingbe retained significant power as head of the newly created Council of Ministers, effectively sidelining the new president. This move, criticized as a "constitutional coup," has consolidated Gnassingbe's family's 58-year rule.
What are the long-term consequences of this constitutional maneuver for Togo's political stability and its citizens' rights?
The Togolese situation highlights a worrying trend in Africa, where constitutional changes are employed to consolidate power and bypass democratic accountability. This is exacerbated by a global context of eroding democracy and multilateralism, reducing external pressure on authoritarian leaders. The influence of recent Sahel juntas, prioritizing power consolidation over democratic transitions, further contributes to this risk.

Cognitive Concepts

3/5

Framing Bias

The article frames Gnassingbe's actions as a power grab, emphasizing the negative consequences and the criticisms from opposition groups. The headline and opening paragraphs establish a critical tone that sets the stage for the rest of the article. While this is a valid perspective, a more neutral framing might explore the constitutional changes' potential rationales before presenting them as inherently undemocratic.

3/5

Language Bias

The article uses loaded language such as "constitutional coup," "power grab," and "terrible development." These terms reflect a negative assessment of Gnassingbe's actions and could influence the reader's perception. Neutral alternatives might include "constitutional amendment," "political maneuver," and "significant political change." Repeated references to Gnassingbe's family dynasty might also contribute to a biased portrayal.

3/5

Bias by Omission

The article focuses heavily on Gnassingbe's actions and the reactions of opposition groups, but it could benefit from including perspectives from within the ruling party to offer a more balanced view. The article mentions the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance but doesn't delve into the specifics of how Togo's actions violate its tenets or the AU's response. Additionally, while the article notes the global context of eroding democracy, it lacks specific examples of international pressure or lack thereof on Togo.

3/5

False Dichotomy

The article presents a clear dichotomy between Gnassingbe's actions and democratic ideals, implying a simplistic eitheor scenario. It doesn't fully explore the complexities of Togolese politics, the potential nuances of Gnassingbe's motivations, or the possibility of alternative interpretations of the constitutional changes.

1/5

Gender Bias

The article primarily focuses on male political figures, and the gender of the quoted experts is not explicitly mentioned. There is no apparent gender bias in the language or presentation of information.

Sustainable Development Goals

Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions Negative
Direct Relevance

The article details how President Gnassingbe of Togo manipulated the constitution to maintain power, undermining democratic processes and institutions. This action directly contradicts the principles of peace, justice, and strong institutions promoted by SDG 16. The actions of other African leaders mentioned further illustrate a broader trend of undermining democratic governance and human rights.