Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé: Power Struggle Amid CEDEAO Ruling

• Togo's President of the Council of Ministers, Faure Gnassingbé, has maintained his grip on power by changing the system from presidential to council-based.
• The recent ECOWAS Court of Justice decision, which declared Togo's 2024 constitutional reforms unconstitutional but is not legally binding, has added complexity to Togo's institutional narrative, sparking international pressure and demands for sanctions against Gnassingbé.
• Gnassingbé's actions have inadvertently made him personally accountable for every challenge facing the government, creating an environment of uncertainty that may impact business operations and investments in the region.

He sought to secure his future by changing the system; instead, he has inadvertently made himself personally accountable for every challenge facing the government.

Togo's President of the Council of Ministers, Faure Gnassingbé, has successfully navigated the country's political system to maintain his grip on power. Initially, it seemed that the presidential system would eventually lead to his departure from office. However, he changed course and retained control by becoming the President of the Council of Ministers in May 2025, a new powerful executive position, while the role of President of the Republic became largely ceremonial and is now held by Jean-Lucien Savi de Tové. This institutional shift appears successful, as the power has changed form without changing its titular holder. Nevertheless, beneath this surface-level success, cracks are beginning to show. Gnassingbé's efforts to secure his political future have inadvertently put him under pressure.

The President's public appearances are now closely scrutinized and interpreted by observers, who see a man more preoccupied and reserved than before. While it's premature to speculate on his personal state, the reality is that Togo's power structure is now perceived as being under strain. This impression is further reinforced by the visible increase in security measures surrounding Gnassingbé, including military aircraft patrolling over his hometown during traditional celebrations.

The question of what exactly is causing this sense of unease has sparked debate on social media: 'What are they afraid of?' The answer lies in the changing dynamics between the power and society. As the government prioritizes self-protection over reassurance, it's clear that something has shifted in their relationship.

The recent decision by the ECOWAS Court of Justice (CEDEAO) on January 29, 2026, which declared Togo's 2024 constitutional reforms an "unconstitutional change of government," has added a new layer of complexity to Togo's institutional narrative. While the ruling is not legally binding and did not impose sanctions, it has sparked international organizations to demand sanctions against Gnassingbé, while local parties are gearing up for potential street protests and heightened campaign activities. This development poses a fundamental question: can lasting political stability be achieved through institutional reforms that continue to fuel controversy over the legitimacy of power? In this context, Gnassingbé's paradox becomes more apparent.

He sought to secure his future by changing the system; instead, he has inadvertently made himself personally accountable for every challenge facing the government. Each failure now reflects on him directly, and each crisis is seen as a personal struggle for power. This unintended consequence of his actions has left Gnassingbé in an increasingly precarious position.

The opposition continues to contest the Fifth Republic, civil society maintains its mobilization efforts, and international pressure mounts. The CEDEAO court's decision has effectively complicated Togo's political landscape, raising questions about the long-term viability of Gnassingbé's grip on power.

The implications of this situation extend beyond Togo's borders. Lawyers and compliance officers should be aware that the CEDEAO court ruling may have significant consequences for business operations and investments in the region. The ongoing power struggle has created an environment of uncertainty, which can impact economic stability and investor confidence.

Furthermore, the case highlights the challenges faced by African leaders who seek to balance their personal interests with the need for institutional reform. Gnassingbé's experience serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of prioritizing self-preservation over the well-being of the nation. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether Togo will find a way to stabilize its politics and ensure a more sustainable future.

Lawyers and compliance officers should watch for potential implications of the CEDEAO court ruling on Togo's political stability, which may impact business operations and investments in the region.

Source: Original reporting via Tribune Libre