A powerful wave of protests has swept across Togo as citizens are calling for the resignation of president Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, whose family has ruled the country for nearly six decades.
Demonstrators, led by opposition leaders, activists and civil society groups, have condemned Gnassinbé’s recent self-appointment as president of the council of Ministers, calling it “unconstitutional coup” that could allow him in power indefinitely.
The unrest comes amid long-standing grievances over authoritarian governance, economic hardships and human rights violations—issues that have plagued the West African nation for years.
The Gnassingbé family’s control over Togo dates back to 1967 when Faure’s father, Gnassingbé Eyadéma, took power through a military coup.He ruled for 38 years until he died in 2005, after which Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé assumed the presidency.
Now in his 20th year in office, Faure’s continued leadership and recent consolidation of power have ignited public outrage.Protestors accuse the government of dismantling democratic institutions to maintain a political dynasty with no clear end in sight.
At the heart of the protests are deep-rooted frustrations that span across generations.Many Togolese face high living costs, unemployment and limited access to basic services, all worsened by systematic corruption.
With no presidential term limits and elections often marred by controversy, citizens are demanding a transparent and inclusive political process.
Previous demonstrations have been met with state violence. Security forces have used tear gas and made mass arrests, prompting condemnation from international watchdogs.
In response to the protests, authorities have deployed police and military units to key areas, often using force to disperse the crowds.Human rights organisations, including Amnesty International, have denounced the excessive response and called for the immediate release of arrested demonstrators.
