The newly formed CNCC represents a strategic alliance between four opposition political parties and multiple civil society organizations. This coalition aims to reignite public opposition to Togo‘s controversial 2024 constitutional amendments, which opposition leaders argue were designed to extend President Faure Gnassingbé‘s grip on power.

Constitutional reforms spark controversy

The amended constitution eliminates direct universal suffrage for presidential elections and replaces the system with a parliamentary model. Under these changes, the prime minister position—currently held by Faure Gnassingbé—becomes the highest state office. Opposition figures condemn these reforms as a blatant attempt to circumvent democratic processes.

“The Togolese people must show they refuse to accept this constitutional fraud,” declared David Dosseh, spokesperson for the Front citoyen Togo debout (FCTD). “This signals a new phase of mobilization and resistance against unconstitutional power grabs.”

Opposition voices unite against repression

Jean-Pierre Fabre, leader of the Alliance nationale pour le changement (ANC), addressed the crowd, highlighting the case of activist Honoré Sitsopé Sokpor (known as “Affectio”), who was re-arrested on May 4 despite recent conditional release. Fabre condemned the detention as arbitrary and politically motivated, stating: “This is sheer persecution—an attempt to silence dissent.”

The CNCC’s emergence follows a year-long lull in opposition public demonstrations, making this inaugural meeting a critical moment in Togo‘s political landscape.