23 Apr 2018 | 10:09 PM UTC
Togo: Opposition protests April 25, 26, and 28 in Lomé /update 4
Coalition of opposition parties (C14) dismisses government restrictions on protest locations April 25, 26, and 28; heightened security and traffic disruptions expected
Event
The C14 political opposition coalition has stated it will not follow the government-imposed route restrictions for its upcoming anti-government protests in Lomé scheduled for April 25, 26, and 28. C14 protests will reportedly proceed as originally planned in the Tokoin Casablanca area of Lomé in front of the Collège des Plateaux, rather than in the Anfamé neighborhood as requested by the government. The government position remains that no demonstration outside the pre-approved routes will be allowed. In light of these circumstances, local reports indicate that clashes between police and protesters are likely. Heightened security measures, and associated traffic disruptions (e.g. due to roadblocks) are likely surrounding all demonstrations through April 28.
Context
According to local sources, at least one protester was killed, and 174 more wounded (including 92 in severe condition) during nationwide opposition protests that took place over the course of several days April 11-14. In addition, security forces reportedly arrested 253 protesters, 26 of who remain incarcerated as of April 23.
The ongoing wave of protests come amid negotiations - ongoing since February - between the government and the opposition, during which time political protests were supposed to be suspended to facilitate the talks. According to a statement issued by opposition leaders, demonstrations had recently been planned to denounce the government's alleged refusal to comply with a list of demands that had already been agreed upon, including a return to the 1992 constitution and the organization of a referendum on constitutional amendments.
Thousands of people 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 in opposition protests since mid-August 2017.
Advice
Individuals in Togo, particularly in Lomé, are advised to avoid all public gatherings (especially political events) due to the risk of violence and to monitor the situation.
