05 Apr 2024 | 10:30 AM UTC
Togo: Opposition calls for nationwide protests April 11-13 following postponement of legislative and regional elections /update 1
Opposition groups call for protests nationwide in Togo April 11-13 following postponement of legislative and regional elections.
Opposition groups have called for protests nationwide April 11-13 after the presidency announced the postponement of legislative and regional elections, initially scheduled for April 20. Opposition groups, including the ADDI, ANC, FDR, PSR, and FCTD, have denounced the move as a constitutional coup. It is unclear whether authorization has been granted for the protests. Further details, including times and locations for the gatherings, are unclear.
Likely gathering locations include the main urban centers of Lome and Sokode. Increased security and localized traffic disruptions are likely near all gatherings. Given the anti-government nature of the protests, the potential for clashes with security forces is elevated.
Avoid all demonstrations. If violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Heed the instructions of authorities.
The postponement of the elections follows the adoption by parliament of a new constitution on March 25. The constitutional amendment transitions the country from a presidential to a parliamentary system. The chief of the parliament will be the leader of the majority party following legislative elections for a six-year term and de facto head of state. It is unclear when the amendments will come into effect.
President Faure Gnassingbe won re-election for a fourth term in February 2020 after taking more than 70 percent of the vote in presidential polls widely criticized by the opposition. The opposition boycotted the 2018 legislative election, enabling Gnassingbe's party to win the majority of seats. Gnassingbe's next political move remains unclear following the constitutional changes and the postponement of the elections.
