Togo: Opposition cancel December 7 protests /update 1

Event

The opposition coalition has cancelled their nationwide protests scheduled to take place on Thursday, December 7, and has called for mass demontrations to be held throughout next week on December 13, 14 and 16. An increased security presence is likely and major transportation disruptions are to be expected in affected areas. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Numerous opposition sit-ins and marches - some of which have turned violent - have been held in Lomé and other cities over the past three months. The demonstrations have been organized by various opposition groups, including the Parti National Panafricain (PNP), the Combat pour l'Alternance Politique en 2015 (CAP 2015), and the Groupe des Six. Thousands have taken to the streets to demand that President Faure Gnassingbé, who has been in power since 2005, step down. At least 16 people have been killed and around 200 wounded in opposition protests since mid-August.

Advice

Individuals in Togo are advised to avoid all public gatherings (particularly political events) due to the risk of violence and to monitor the situation. Be prepared to shelter in place in the event of further unrest or a sudden deterioration in the country’s security situation (stock up on food, water, and other necessities).