Togo: Nationwide opposition protests January 31 - February 2

Event

Togo’s political opposition coalition announced plans to hold three days of nationwide demonstrations from Wednesday, January 31, to Friday, February 2. The demonstrations are scheduled to take place in Lomé and other, currently unannounced, locations. It is unclear if the demonstrations have been approved by the government, and clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out. Associated heightened security measures and traffic disruptions are expected in the affected areas.

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. According to media sources, the government still intends to hold a referendum following the planned negotiations on a drafted revision to the constitution that would permit Gnassingbé to run for additional terms in office.

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 ongoing high sociopolitical tensions.

Advice

Individuals in Togo are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public gatherings (particularly political events) due to the risk of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.