Togo: Opposition agrees to suspend protests February 21 /update 2

Event

The opposition coalition announced on Wednesday, February 21, that it will suspend nationwide protests after starting talks with the government earlier in the week. Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo mediated the dialogue between the opposition and representatives from the government on Monday, February 19. According to a statement issued by opposition leaders, President Faure Gnassingbé agreed to released 45 of the 92 people who have been detained during the recent wave of protests. The next round of talks is scheduled to be held on Friday, February 23.

Context

Thousands have taken to the streets over the past four months to demand that President 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.

There are currently 12 items on the agenda, including a return to the 1992 constitution and the organization of a referendum to amend this constitution.

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.