Togo: Opposition coalition postpones protests in Lomé /update 1

Event

Following negotiations with government officials, the opposition coalition announced on Wednesday, March 7, that it would postpone a series of demonstrations to the week of March 19, although no details have been released as of Thursday, March 8. The rallies were originally scheduled to take place in Lomé on Tuesday, March 13, Wednesday, March 14, Thursday, March 15, and Saturday, March 17. Increased security measures and localized transportation disruptions are anticipated in the capital if the protests take place.

Context

According to a statement issued by opposition leaders, the demonstrations are being organized in protest of recent police violence against opposition supporters, and in retaliation for the government's alleged refusal to comply with a list of demands that had been negotiated during a round of talks which began on February 19.

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. 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, particularly in Lomé, are advised to avoid all public gatherings (particularly political events) due to the risk of violence and to monitor the situation.