Parliamentarians in Togo have begun a three-day tour to sensitise citizens about a controversial bill that will alter the country’s constitution. It seeks to empower parliament to choose the president instead of conducting direct elections.
The lawmakers, whose legitimacy is also being questioned, adopted the new bill document on March 25, which effectively transitions the country from a presidential to a parliamentary republic. Some of the lawmakers terms had expired last year.
However, there has been mounting opposition to the move as critics say it will pave way for President Gnassingbe to consolidate his grip on power.
Opposition parties have argued that a referendum is required to change the constitution.
The proposed consultations have led the government to delay the legislative and regional elections previously scheduled for April 20 with no new dates announced.
The country has been ruled by the Gnassingbe family since 1967.