Barry Moussa Barqué, a close associate of Togo’s President Faure Gnassingbé, has been unanimously elected as the head of the country’s Senate, following constitutional reforms that reshaped the institution’s role.
Barqué, 82, has been a special advisor to Gnassingbé since 2009 and previously held multiple ministerial positions under the president’s late father, Gnassingbé Eyadéma, who ruled for 38 years until his death in 2005.
Constitutional Changes and Power Structure
The recent constitutional overhaul replaced direct presidential elections with a parliamentary system, significantly reducing the presidency’s executive powers. Under the new system, the head of state will hold a largely ceremonial role, while the president of the council of ministers—currently Faure Gnassingbé—will lead the government and wield executive authority.
Opposition groups argue that these changes are designed to keep Gnassingbé in power indefinitely, as he would have been limited to one final term under the previous constitution. However, government supporters claim the reforms enhance democratic representation.
Structure of the New Senate
The restructured Senate consists of 61 members, with 41 elected by municipal and regional councils and 20 appointed by the president.
In his acceptance speech, Barqué described the constitutional revision as “a foundation for a dynamic parliamentary system where all voices matter.” He emphasized that the reform symbolizes “renewal, dialogue, and progress” for the nation.
Under the new framework, Togo’s future president—now a ceremonial position—will be elected by senators and members of parliament, though a date for that election has yet to be announced.