Togo constitutional crisis: government defies ECOWAS ruling as civil society demands justice
The recent ruling by the ECOWAS Court of Justice on Togo’s constitutional changes has sparked intense debate in Lomé. While the government rejects the decision outright, civil society groups are escalating their criticism, accusing authorities of state-sanctioned gangsterism.
Lomé’s legal strategy: dismissing ECOWAS authority
Togo’s administration has swiftly defended itself against the regional court’s verdict. Officials argue that the ECOWAS Court lacks the jurisdiction to rule on national constitutional matters or interfere with sovereign legislative processes, effectively undermining the ruling’s domestic validity.
Civil society fires back: a constitutional coup under scrutiny
The Association of Victims of Torture in Togo (ASVITTO) has launched a scathing public response, dismissing the government’s stance as a futile attempt to evade justice. In a statement on social media, the group condemned what it describes as a constitutional coup, warning that those responsible are now trapped in their own desperation.
« The pattern is undeniable: this administration has consistently ignored ECOWAS rulings, showing contempt for regional legal frameworks. »
The organisation points to the continued detention of political prisoners in Lomé—despite multiple ECOWAS orders demanding their release—as proof of the government’s defiance.
ASVITTO calls for decisive action against state lawlessness
In a direct appeal to the regional bloc, ASVITTO urges ECOWAS to enforce its landmark ECW/CCJ/JUD/01/26 judgment, issued in January. The ruling declared Togo’s 2024 constitutional reform incompatible with the African Charter on Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance.
The NGO’s message is unequivocal: « This form of state-sponsored lawlessness must end across West Africa. »
Political deadlock leaves prisoners in limbo
The standoff has reached a stalemate: Togo’s government insists on its legal immunity, while civil society accuses it of violating international obligations. Meanwhile, political detainees remain imprisoned, their fate hanging in the balance as diplomatic and legal battles rage.
