🛑 Public Outrage Turns Deadly: Togo Erupts in Protest Over Constitutional Changes
Togo has been plunged into political and social turmoil, with seven confirmed deaths and dozens injured following a violent state response to peaceful protests against controversial constitutional reforms. Citizens fear the new laws will allow President Faure Gnassingbé to remain in power indefinitely, continuing his 20-year rule.
The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has condemned the brutality, calling for an independent investigation into the state’s use of force and the circumstances surrounding the fatalities.
🗳️ Protests Against “Power Grab” Turn Tragic
Between June 26 and 28, 2025, thousands of demonstrators gathered in Lomé, Togo’s capital, to oppose constitutional amendments critics say are a blatant power consolidation effort by the president.
Protests erupted despite a government declaration that the marches were illegal. Security forces—assisted by plainclothes militia—moved quickly to disperse the crowds, using live ammunition, batons, and arbitrary arrests.
Among the victims were:
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Two young brothers found dead in the Fourth Lake area
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A 16-year-old school graduate
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A public latrine worker shot while helping a child
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Three others found in separate lagoon areas with gunshot wounds
“The government must be held accountable for these human rights violations,” MFWA stated in a formal condemnation.
💬 Government Dismisses Allegations, Blames Diaspora
Instead of acknowledging wrongdoing, the Togolese government denied using excessive force, dismissing the incident as the result of foreign influence and misinformation.
A presidential spokesperson accused diaspora activists of inciting violence and vowed to prosecute protest organizers—both domestic and abroad.
“Public order was professionally restored,” claimed state officials, in stark contrast to widespread reports of unprovoked aggression and unlawful detentions.
🔒 Shrinking Civil Liberties in Togo
Since 2022, Togo has increasingly curtailed freedoms of expression and assembly. The recent crackdown reflects a disturbing pattern of authoritarian governance, where protests are met with force, and dissenters—including journalists—face intimidation and arrest.
Earlier in June, over 80 demonstrators and media personnel were arrested, setting the stage for the late-June escalation.
“We are witnessing a government that rules through fear, repression, and impunity,” noted human rights observers.
⚖️ Calls for Justice and Accountability
The MFWA and several civil society organizations have demanded:
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An independent investigation into the killings
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Accountability for security forces involved in the repression
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Immediate release of unlawfully detained protesters
Former Minister of the Armed Forces, Essossimna Marguerite GNAKADÉ, broke ranks with the regime, publicly stating:
“I strongly condemn the violence against unarmed citizens. Our defense forces must act with responsibility and uphold the rights of the people.”
🕊️ Road to Peace: Demands for Transparency and Reform
As regional tensions rise, the international community is being urged to intervene diplomatically to restore calm and uphold the democratic rights of Togolese citizens. Organizations like the Media Foundation for West Africa stress that justice for the victims is a prerequisite for peace.
“Without truth and accountability, there can be no trust—or stability.”
Source: https://ifex.org
