Amnesty International has publicly condemned the recent violent repression of protestors in Togo, highlighting significant concerns over what it describes as the unjustified use of force by police and security forces. These crackdowns, detailed in a statement from Amnesty, were most notably observed during large-scale protests in the capital, Lomé, on June 26. The organisation calls for a thorough investigation into alleged unlawful killings, arbitrary arrests, torture, and disappearances of demonstrators. As tensions continue to simmer, the call for action has intensified, with Amnesty demanding the release of those detained in the protests.
Fabien Offner, a researcher with Amnesty International, emphasized the necessity for transparency regarding these incidents, advocating for freedom for those arrested merely for exercising their rights to expression and peaceful assembly. More details are available in Amnesty International’s statement.
The turmoil stems from changes to Togo’s constitution, which were passed in April 2024, significantly modifying the presidential election process. This shift consolidates presidential power, granting the parliament the authority to elect the president while reducing the term length but not accounting for previous time served. This has effectively allowed Faure Gnassingbé, in power since 2005, to maintain his position, sparking public outcry as reported by Reuters.
Protesters argue that these constitutional revisions equate to a power grab, with security forces reportedly deploying tear gas and batons to suppress demonstrations, as corroborated by witness accounts and civic rights organizations. This response has resulted in at least seven fatalities and numerous injuries among protestors, though the government denies any connection between these deaths and the protests themselves. Further coverage on the recent deaths can be found on BBC News.
Beyond international scrutiny, regional NGOs like the Media Foundation for West Africa have condemned the Togolese government’s handling of protests. They urge an independent investigation, emphasizing accountability and the need to uphold human rights. The situation in Togo reflects broader concerns about the erosion of civil liberties, as highlighted by persistent bans on protests, contributing to a troubling encroachment on rights like liberty and freedom of expression. These developments are discussed in further detail on the Media Foundation for West Africa’s portal.