Togo: Nationwide protests scheduled January 11, 13

Event

The "En Aucun Cas" civil society group has called for protests to take place in several cities across the country on Saturday, January 11, and Monday, January 13, to denounce President Faure Gnassingbé's decision to run for a fourth term during the Saturday, February 22 presidential elections. Protests are expected in the capital Lomé, as well as in Aného, Afanyagan, Kpalimé, Atakpamé, Sokodé, Kara, and Mango.

A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are likely near all protest sites. Clashes between protesters and police forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

President Faure Gnassingbé has been in power since 2005 when he took over after the death of his father Gnassingbe Eyadema who led the country for 38 years. In May 2019, parliament approved a constitutional amendment capping the presidential mandate to two five-year terms, allowing President Gnassingbé to potentially stay in office until 2030. Thousands of people have taken to the streets to demand that President Gnassingbé step down. Over a dozen people have been killed in opposition protests ongoing since mid-August 2017.

Should presidential candidates fail to obtain a majority greater than 51 percent, a second round of presidential elections will be organized. Polling stations are due to open nationwide from 07:00 to 16:00 (local time) on February 22.

Advice

Individuals in Togo are advised to monitor developments, avoid all political rallies and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.