The Togolese government has issued international arrest warrants for leaders of the M66 Citizens’ Movement, a coalition of bloggers, exiled activists, and opposition voices behind the June 2025 anti-government protests that swept across the country. Security Minister Calixte Madjoulba confirmed the warrants during a press briefing on July 9 in Lomé, stating that the individuals sought are accused of “inciting public disorder, subversion, and terrorism.” The government claims that the protest organizers, many of whom are believed to be living abroad, used digital platforms to coordinate nationwide demonstrations.
The June protests were sparked by soaring food and fuel prices, the arrest of several public commentators, and sweeping constitutional reforms that entrenched President Faure Gnassingbé’s power. Under the new system approved by Parliament in April, the presidency was largely stripped of its executive role, and Gnassingbé was named head of the powerful Council of Ministers, effectively maintaining his grip on power after nearly two decades in office. The demonstrations—banned by authorities—led to violent clashes with security forces. Civil society groups reported at least seven deaths, dozens of injuries, and mass arrests. Access to social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and X (formerly Twitter) was temporarily restricted during the unrest. A judicial inquiry into the fatalities has since been launched.
Despite mounting pressure from the opposition and rights groups, the government insists that the upcoming local elections on July 17 will proceed as planned. The M66 has called for renewed protests on July 16 and 17, urging citizens to boycott the polls and resist what they describe as a “constitutional coup.” Togo has seen sporadic protests over the years amid long-standing grievances over governance, press freedom, and political reforms. President Gnassingbé, in power since 2005 following the death of his father, remains one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
