New post for Togo president could see him rule for life
This latest change results from a new constitution approved by lawmakers last year, labelled by critics and opposition figures as an "institutional coup d'état".Gnassingbé's government had paused some of the changes following huge backlash, but has moved ahead with his new role.Togo's municipal elections in July will be the first under the new constitution, which has replaced the presidential system with a parliamentary one.In theory, the role of president of the republic is now only an honorary title, but analysts say Gnassingbé's power is more entrenched than ever with his new post of council president.His party, the Union for the Republic, won a huge majority in last year's parliamentary election, taking of 108 out of 113 seats in the National Assembly.
More BBC stories about Togo:
'Helping a human is better than scoring a goal' - AdebayorWhy ex-French colonies are joining the CommonwealthMeet the football grannies of Africa
Go to BBCAfrica.com for more news from the African continent.Follow us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica
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