05 Apr 2018 | 11:46 AM UTC
Togo: Civil society march in Lomé April 14
Togolese civil society coalition group set to hold march April 14 in Lomé; heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions expected
Event
The FCTD (Front Citoyen Togo Debout) coalition of civil society groups plans to hold a march followed by a rally on Saturday, April 14, in the capital Lomé. The demonstration is being organized to demand the release of union members currently imprisoned and raise public awareness regarding the current sociopolitical climate, among other reasons. Details regarding the location and time of the protest have yet to be released. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are expected.
Context
Thousands have taken to the streets in recent months to demand that President Faure Gnassingbé, in power since 2005, step down. Over a dozen people have been killed and around 200 others wounded in opposition protests since mid-August 2017.
This demonstration comes amid negotiations - ongoing since February - between the government and the opposition, a period of time when political protests are supposed to be suspended.
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.
