10 Jan 2018 | 05:33 AM UTC
Togo: Nationwide opposition demonstrations January 13, 20
Opposition coalition plans nationwide demonstrations for January 13 and January 20; increased security presence and major transportation disruptions expected around demonstrations
Event
Togo’s political opposition coalition announced plans to hold nationwide demonstrations on Saturday, January 13. Demonstrations on January 13 will take place in Lomé and other, currently unannounced, locations. The demonstrations have reportedly been approved by the government. However, the government ban on demonstrations in Sokode, Bafilo, and Mango remains in effect; it is unclear whether opposition elements will attempt to hold protests in these areas.
Additionally, a nationwide women’s march also organized by the opposition will be held on Saturday, January 20, in Lomé and several other cities. An increased security presence along with major transportation disruptions are to be expected around any demonstrations.
Context
Thousands have taken to the streets over the past four months 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 2017. Opposition leaders have urged the government to take concrete measures to address these high sociopolitical tensions and some opposition leaders have traveled to Accra (Ghana) to settle the terms of related negotiations in recent weeks.
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.
