Togo: Dialogue between government and opposition starts Feb. 19 /update 1

Event

Political dialogue between the Togolese government and the opposition coalition was launched on Monday, February 19, in an effort to resolve the ongoing political crisis. The talks are being mediated by Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo.

This first round of talks is set to last at least ten days. The opposition coalition has warned that protests may take place if no agreement is reached within those ten days. In the meantime, President Faure Gnassingbé‘s party has reiterated in recent weeks that it would be “out of the question” to discuss his leaving office, which could potentially jeopardize the talks.

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.