Lively exchanges between traditional chiefs in Lomé and MPs on Monday (April 8) marked the start of a tour of discussions across Togo aimed at explaining constitutional change in the country.

On March 25, members of parliament adopted a new constitution with a parliamentary system in place of a semi-presidential system. The move sparked public outcry and raised much concern in the west African nation that are now being addressed via consultations.

The consultations also come after authorities postponed the country’s legislative elections, initially scheduled for 20 April. The elections had been due in December last year before being originally scheduled for 12 April and now being postponed until 20 April.

Authorities say the vote was postponed to allow MPs to take a second look at the new Constitution.

“This was an opportunity for us to explain the advantages and disadvantages of both systems. We pointed out the advantage of a parliamentary system. Power will no longer be concentrated in the hands of the President of the Republic” says Mémounatou Ibrahima, Vice-President of the National Assembly.

Ogbui Mawuto Frédéric Dzidzolé Dotu, one of the traditional chiefs welcomed the meeting. “We hope that this is a very good thing that we can try out” said Dotu. “The National Assembly must do its utmost to ensure that this revision does not damage the climate of peace that we have been experiencing for some time in our country” added the traditional chief who also headsthe Council of Traditional Chiefs of the Gulf.