Leaders from the West African regional bloc, ECOWAS, have revised their plans to visit Togo following initial concerns over controversial constitutional reforms. 4
Originally, Ecowas indicated that the visit was in response to the government’s proposed changes to the constitution, which were perceived as a power grab by the opposition.
However, a press release published on Monday was later deleted and replaced with a new statement clarifying that the visit is now labeled as a simple “information mission.” The revised statement emphasized that the delegates from Ecowas will not be involved in any other processes, as previously indicated.
The proposed constitutional reforms in Togo aim to transition the country from a presidential to a parliamentary system. Despite the government’s intentions to implement these changes, the opposition has condemned them as a strategy to extend President Faure Gnassingbé’s rule, who is already serving his fourth term in office.
Ecowas is facing mounting pressure following failed diplomatic efforts to restore democracy in the region, particularly in dealing with military juntas. The organization’s involvement in Togo comes at a critical time as it navigates challenges in promoting democratic governance across West Africa.
