Togolese opposition factions and civil society groups demand a halt to upcoming municipal elections. They cite recent deadly anti-government protests across the nation. The vote, currently slated for July 17, faces growing calls for postponement.
Togo, under the enduring rule of President Faure Gnassingbé and his late father for nearly six decades, has witnessed unusual unrest. Recent weeks saw protests erupt over surging electricity prices. The detention of government critics also fueled public discontent. A controversial constitutional reform further solidified Gnassingbé’s hold.
The demonstrations have tragically claimed at least seven lives. Dozens more sustained injuries, with over sixty arrests reported by civil society groups. This crackdown on dissent has drawn sharp condemnation from various quarters.
The National Alliance for Change (ANC) and Democratic Forces for the Republic (FDR) joined with several advocacy organizations. They vehemently condemned the “brutal repression” of protestors. Their unified statement urged an indefinite delay for the municipal elections.
Amnesty International previously called for an independent investigation. The rights group highlighted allegations of killings, torture, and kidnappings by security forces. Opposition and civil society groups echoed this plea, decrying the “barbarity” of state forces and pro-government militias.