A wave of anti-government protests in Togo has left at least seven people dead and dozens injured, following a violent crackdown by security forces over the weekend. What began as peaceful demonstrations quickly escalated into chaos, particularly in the capital, Lomé.
The protests, spearheaded by youth-led civic groups and online activists, demanded the release of political prisoners and the resignation of President Faure Gnassingbé, who currently chairs the Council of State Ministers. Demonstrators accused the government of authoritarianism and systemic repression.
Clashes broke out when security forces attempted to disperse the crowds using tear gas. Protesters retaliated by throwing stones and makeshift projectiles. The confrontation reached a peak on Friday and Saturday, turning opposition strongholds like Bè into flashpoints of violence. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic, with security personnel chasing demonstrators into residential areas and homes.
Although the Togolese government has yet to confirm any casualties, reports from local media and human rights organizations indicate at least seven people were killed and many others injured—some critically.
In response, a coalition of 23 civil society organizations under the National Platform for Civic Space and Development Effectiveness issued a statement condemning the “excessive use of force” against unarmed protesters. “Peaceful protest is a constitutionally protected right in Togo and recognized under international law,” the group stated, while demanding an immediate and independent investigation into the events.
The Togolese government responded on June 29 with a strongly worded statement accusing foreign-based organizers of spreading "disinformation, hatred, violence, incivility, and calls for civil disobedience." Authorities reiterated that public demonstrations remain banned nationwide since 2022, citing ongoing security concerns, and threatened legal action against protest leaders.
Despite the crackdown, calm had largely returned to Lomé by Sunday. Commercial activity resumed in areas like the Assigamé Central Market, though a heavy security presence remained.
Outside Togo, members of the diaspora voiced their concerns. Jonas Bogavi, a Togolese national living in Ho, Ghana, expressed sorrow over being unable to return home for his grandmother’s funeral due to the unrest. “I wanted to ride my motorbike back for the burial, but I’m scared. What I’m seeing online is terrifying,” he said.
Public dissatisfaction with President Faure Gnassingbé continues to mount. In office since 2005 following the death of his father, former President Eyadéma Gnassingbé, Faure's tenure has been marked by calls for term limits and broader democratic reforms—demands that remain unmet.
Fueling the recent unrest was the controversial May arrest and psychiatric detention of Togolese rapper Narcisse Essowè Tchalla, known as Aamron. His case ignited widespread outrage, culminating in mass protests on June 6 that resulted in over 50 arrests. While most detainees have since been released, at least three remain in custody.
Togo’s political climate remains tense, with growing demands for accountability, democratic reform, and respect for fundamental rights.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem